Prattle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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prattle
[ˈprætl ]
Definitions
conversation
To talk at length in a foolish or inconsequential way; to chatter incessantly.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prattle |
Used to describe talk that is trivial or childish, often without much sense or purpose.
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| chatter |
Implies a casual, fast-paced talk, often among friends or in lively settings. Can also refer to the sound of animals or objects making repetitive noises.
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| babble |
Typically implies talking rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. Can also refer to the sound of running water.
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| ramble |
Implies talking or writing in a lengthy, confused, and often pointless way. Carries a slightly negative connotation of lack of focus.
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| gab |
Usually refers to talking at length, rarely with negative feelings. Often used for friendly, informal conversations.
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Examples of usage
- She prattled on about her weekend plans.
- The children prattled happily as they played in the yard.
- Don't prattle on about things you know nothing about.
- I wish she would stop prattling and get to the point.
- He prattled nervously during the job interview.
conversation
Foolish or inconsequential talk; chatter.
Synonyms
babble, chatter, gossip, jabber.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| prattle |
Used to describe someone talking in a foolish or inconsequential way, often at length. It generally has a negative connotation.
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| chatter |
Used for informal, light, and quick conversation, often regarding trivial matters. It can also describe the noise made by animals like monkeys or birds.
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| babble |
Used when someone is talking rapidly and continuously in a way that's hard to understand or meaningless. It's often used to describe the speech of babies or people who are very excited or confused.
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| gossip |
Used for informal talks about other people's private lives, often including unconfirmed or malicious details. It typically has a negative connotation.
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| jabber |
Used to describe talking rapidly, often in a confused or incoherent manner. It suggests a sense of urgency or excitement.
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Examples of usage
- Her prattle was entertaining but lacked substance.
- I couldn't focus on work with all the prattle going on around me.
- The meeting was filled with mindless prattle.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- In literature, characters that prattle often add a humorous or whimsical tone, revealing their personality and social dynamics.
- Animated shows often feature characters who prattle to exaggerate their quirks, keeping the audience entertained.
- The term appears in many songs and poems, often to express lightheartedness or banter among characters.
Psychology
- Research suggests that individuals who engage in lighthearted chatter can enhance social bonds and create a positive atmosphere.
- Prattling can sometimes serve as a coping mechanism, allowing people to distract themselves from stress or anxiety.
- Conversational skills, including the ability to prattle without substance, often develop in early childhood as part of social learning.
Literature
- Classic works often feature characters who prattle as a representation of social customs and communication patterns of the time.
- Notable authors like Jane Austen used prattling characters to contrast deeper themes within their narratives.
- Prattling serves as a device in storytelling, providing comic relief amidst more serious subjects.
Communication
- In modern conversations, prattling can serve an important role, helping to fill silence and maintain engagement in social settings.
- While often seen as trivial, some communication experts argue that it can build rapport and ease tension during discussions.
- The balance between meaningful conversation and prattling is an essential part of interpersonal dynamics and relationship building.
Origin of 'prattle'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the early 15th century, derived from Middle English 'pratlen,' meaning to chatter like a child.
- Related to the Dutch word 'pratten,' which also refers to making light, silly talk.
- It was originally used to describe the babbling of babies or children, indicating an innocent or trivial nature.
The word 'prattle' originated in the late 16th century and is believed to have evolved from the Middle Low German word 'praten' meaning 'to chatter'. Over time, 'prattle' has come to describe talking in a childish or nonsensical manner. It has been used in English literature to depict light and inconsequential conversation or gossip.