Prattle: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe talk that is trivial or childish, often without much sense or purpose.

• The old man prattled on about his childhood for hours
• The babies prattled contentedly in their cribs

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.

• The kids chattered happily in the schoolyard
• Monkeys chattered in the jungle canopy

Typically implies talking rapidly and continuously in a foolish, excited, or incomprehensible way. Can also refer to the sound of running water.

• She babbled nervously during the job interview
• The brook babbled gently over the rocks

Implies talking or writing in a lengthy, confused, and often pointless way. Carries a slightly negative connotation of lack of focus.

• He rambled on about his vacation for an hour without getting to the point
• Her writing tends to ramble and lacks coherence

Usually refers to talking at length, rarely with negative feelings. Often used for friendly, informal conversations.

• They gabbled for hours over coffee
• She's known for gabbing on the phone with her friends

Used to describe someone talking in a foolish or inconsequential way, often at length. It generally has a negative connotation.

• The children prattled on about their favorite cartoons
• He tends to prattle when he's nervous

Used for informal, light, and quick conversation, often regarding trivial matters. It can also describe the noise made by animals like monkeys or birds.

• The friends chattered away during their coffee break
• The birds chattered in the trees

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.

• The baby babbled happily in her crib
• After the accident, he just babbled incoherently

Used for informal talks about other people's private lives, often including unconfirmed or malicious details. It typically has a negative connotation.

• The office is full of gossip about the new manager
• She enjoys gossiping about celebrities

Used to describe talking rapidly, often in a confused or incoherent manner. It suggests a sense of urgency or excitement.

• The excited fans jabbered about the game
• After the surprise party, everyone jabbered at once