Rattle: meaning, definitions and examples

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rattle

[ˈrætl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sound

A rapid succession of short, sharp sounds.

Synonyms

clack, clang, clatter.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rattle	This is a repetition caused by the data duplication in the original prompt. Please refer to the first entry for context and examples
clatter	Clatter is used to describe a continuous noise made by objects hitting each other or a hard surface, often in a disorderly or rapid manner. It tends to imply a sense of chaos or lack of control. The dishes clattered as they were piled into the sink A stack of books clattered to the floor
clack	Clack is used to describe a quick, sharp sound made by objects that typically have a repetitive and rhythmic quality, such as typing on a keyboard or heels striking a hard surface. You can hear the clack of the typewriter in the next room The clack of high heels echoed through the hallway
clang	Clang refers to a loud, resonant metallic sound, often abrupt and harsh. It is typically used to describe the noise made when metal objects strike each other. The metal gates closed with a loud clang The pots and pans fell to the floor with a clang

Examples of usage

The rattle of the train on the tracks was soothing to the passengers.
The baby's toy made a loud rattle when shaken.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

baby toy

A baby's toy that makes a rattling sound when shaken.

Examples of usage

The colorful rattle kept the baby entertained for hours.
She handed the rattle to the baby to distract him.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

shake

To make a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds.

Synonyms

clatter, jingle, shiver.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
rattle	This word is often used to describe a rapid series of short, hard sounds. It can also be used metaphorically to describe causing someone to feel nervous or scared. The windows started to rattle during the storm. His sudden question rattled her.
clatter	Clatter is used for a sequence of loud, rattling sounds, often when hard objects hit each other repeatedly. It suggests more noise and chaos than 'rattle'. The dishes clattered as he piled them in the sink. She dropped the tray, and it clattered noisily to the ground.
shiver	Shiver typically refers to a small, involuntary shaking movement caused by cold or strong emotions like fear. It is usually used for people or animals. She couldn't help but shiver in the cold wind. The scary story made him shiver with fear.
jingle	Jingle describes a light, ringing sound, often associated with small metal objects like keys or bells. The sound is pleasant or cheerful. The car keys jingled in his pocket. They added some bells to the door so that it jingles when people enter.

Examples of usage

The wind caused the windows to rattle all night.
The snake began to rattle its tail as a warning.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from Middle English 'ratlen,' which refers to a clattering or quick noise.
Its origins can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word '*ratwō,' meaning to shake or vibrate.
In various languages, similar terms convey the idea of noise and quick movements, reflecting a common human experience.

Science

Rattling sounds can occur in nature, such as when small animals make noise to warn predators or communicate.
In acoustics, a rattle can be studied as a form of sound wave that bounces off surfaces, creating echoes.
The sound is often produced by materials that vibrate; for example, a loose part in a machine can rattle and indicate a malfunction.

Pop Culture

In movies, rattling noises often indicate suspense, such as in horror films where something unexpected is about to happen.
Popular children’s toys, like baby rattles, are designed to encourage sensory exploration with sound, aiding in motor skills.
Songs and musical pieces can feature rattling sounds, using instruments like maracas to create a playful rhythm.

Psychology

Auditory stimuli, like rattling noises, can trigger emotional responses or memories, often linked to childhood experiences.
Some therapists use sounds, including rattles, in play therapy to help children express their feelings and communicate.
Rattling can also be soothing; for instance, white noise machines mimic rattling sounds to help with sleep.

Literature

In stories, rattling can symbolize tension or anxiety, reflecting a character's inner turmoil through sensory details.
Authors often use the sound of rattling to create atmosphere and evoke vivid imagery in their descriptive writing.
Classical literature sometimes employs rattling as a metaphor, illustrating themes of chaos or disruption in life.

Translations

Translations of the word "rattle" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chocalho

🇮🇳 खड़खड़ाना

🇩🇪 Rassel

🇮🇩 kerincingan

🇺🇦 брязкальце

🇵🇱 grzechotka

🇯🇵 ガラガラ

🇫🇷 hochet

🇪🇸 sonajero

🇹🇷 çıngırak

🇰🇷 딸랑이

🇸🇦 خشخيشة

🇨🇿 chrastítko

🇸🇰 hrkálka

🇨🇳 拨浪鼓

🇸🇮 ropotulja

🇮🇸 hringla

🇰🇿 сыңғырық

🇬🇪 ჟღარუნა

🇦🇿 zınqırov

🇲🇽 sonajero

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,781, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13778 disgusting
13779 rebate
13780 attest
13781 rattle
13782 scribe
13783 diarrhoea
13784 assented
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