Sputter Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
sputter
[หspสtษr ]
Definitions
sound production
Make a series of soft explosive sounds, typically when being heated or as a symptom of a fault.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sputter |
Same as above: Often used when something, like an engine or a flame, makes short, explosive sounds and works unevenly.
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| splutter |
This word is similar to 'sputter' but is more commonly associated with someone speaking quickly and incoherently, especially when they are confused or excited.
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| spit |
Used to refer to the action of forcefully ejecting saliva from the mouth. It can also describe someone speaking words in a sharp or angry manner. Note, this word often carries a negative connotation, especially in terms of behavior.
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| hiss |
This word is generally used to describe a sharp sibilant sound, like steam escaping or a snake making a noise. It can also refer to people showing disapproval in a low tone.
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Examples of usage
- The engine sputtered and died.
- The bacon sputtered in the frying pan.
speech
Speak in a hesitant or unsteady way.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sputter |
Sputter is often used to describe someone speaking quickly and incoherently, often due to emotions like anger or excitement. It can also refer to an irregular sound, like a motor struggling to start.
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| stammer |
Stammer refers to speaking with involuntary pauses and repetitions, which can happen because of nervousness, embarrassment, or a speech disorder.
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| stutter |
Stutter, similar to stammer, involves the repetition of sounds or syllables, often due to a speech impediment. Itโs mostly used to describe a more chronic condition.
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| mumble |
Mumble is used when someone speaks quietly and not clearly, making it hard to understand them. This often happens when someone is shy, not confident, or doesn't want to be overheard.
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Examples of usage
- She sputtered out an apology.
- He sputtered with indignation.
sound
A series of soft explosive sounds typically caused by something such as a fault in an electrical circuit.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| sputter |
Used when something makes a series of short explosive sounds, often due to malfunction or interruption. Can describe people when they are struggling to speak due to anger or surprise.
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| splutter |
Used to describe speaking quickly and with difficulty, often due to confusion, disbelief, or when choking on something.
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| hiss |
Used to describe a sharp 'ssss' sound, like that made by a snake or steam escaping. Can also describe a person speaking in a low, angry, or urgent manner.
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| spit |
Used when someone or something forcibly expels liquid from the mouth. Can also describe speaking words with aggression or disdain. This word often has a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The radio emitted a sputter of static.
- There was a sputter of sparks from the faulty wire.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- In physics, 'sputtering' refers to a process where atoms are ejected from a material due to bombardment of energetic particles, a key method in materials science.
- This technique is used to create thin films on surfaces, important in electronics for making components like semiconductors.
Pop Culture
- Sputtering is often depicted in movies or shows to suggest a character is nervous or excited, adding dramatic tension.
- In cartoons, characters often sputter when surprised to emphasize their shock, making it a recognizable trope.
Literature
- Authors use the term 'sputter' to create vivid imagery, portraying a character's confusion or a faltering speech in tense moments.
- Notable writers like Mark Twain and Ernest Hemingway employed crisp, sputtering dialogue to convey urgency in their narratives.
Everyday Experiences
- You might hear cars sputter when they run out of gas or if thereโs a mechanical issue, signaling a problem.
- Breakfast foods, like sputtering bacon in a pan, create an audible signal of cooking processes, making meals more engaging.
Origin of 'sputter'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sputter' comes from the 16th century, possibly from combining 'spit' and 'quatter' which means to spit or scatter.
- It initially described the way something breaks apart or makes noise, often linked to fire or engines.
The word 'sputter' originated in the early 17th century, possibly imitative of the sound itself. It has since been used to describe a variety of soft explosive sounds, both in terms of sound production and speech. The word has evolved to encompass both literal and figurative meanings, capturing the essence of hesitation, instability, and sporadic bursts of sound.