Puttered: meaning, definitions and examples

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puttered

 

[ ˈpʌtərd ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

engine noise

The term 'puttered' refers to the sound produced by an engine that runs with a muffled, sputtering noise, often suggesting a lack of power or efficiency. It can also describe the action of moving with a slow and deliberate pace, often in a casual or aimless manner. This verb conveys a sense of gentle movement rather than a swift or forceful one, typically used in contexts such as gardening or other leisurely activities.

Synonyms

dawdle, falter, muff, putt.

Examples of usage

  • He puttered around the garden in the early morning light.
  • The old car puttered along the country road.
  • She spent the afternoon puttering about the house, organizing her belongings.
  • The motorbike puttered to a stop after several failed attempts to start.

Translations

Translations of the word "puttered" in other languages:

🇵🇹 murmurou

🇮🇳 गड़गड़ाहट की आवाज़ निकालना

🇩🇪 motorstottern

🇮🇩 berdesir

🇺🇦 потикав

🇵🇱 burczeć

🇯🇵 ゴロゴロ言う

🇫🇷 ronronner

🇪🇸 ronronear

🇹🇷 mırıltı

🇰🇷 웅웅거리다

🇸🇦 مُزَمْزَمَة

🇨🇿 bublání

🇸🇰 hrkotať

🇨🇳 轰鸣

🇸🇮 mrmrati

🇮🇸 murmra

🇰🇿 мұңғырлау

🇬🇪 ბუზღუილი

🇦🇿 mırıltı

🇲🇽 ronronear

Etymology

The word 'puttered' comes from the mid 20th century, possibly derived from the sound 'putt', which imitates a soft, muffled explosion or purring noise often associated with small engines or mechanical devices. The origin may also relate to the verb 'putter', which means to occupy oneself in a desultory but enjoyable manner. In this context, puttering implies a leisurely engagement in activities without a fixed purpose or destination. The phrase 'puttering about' became popular as a way to describe a calm, unhurried approach to tasks or chores, suggesting a lifestyle that appreciates the small details rather than rushing through them. The term has maintained its relevance as a description of everyday, often domestic activities that foster a sense of comfort and simplicity.