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Sputtering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sputtering

[หˆspษ™tษ™rษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

mechanical failure

Sputtering refers to the irregular and often explosive ejection of small particles or droplets that can occur in various contexts, such as engines or electronic devices. This term is often associated with malfunctioning mechanisms that produce inconsistent output or performance.

Synonyms

choking, faltering, spluttering.

Examples of usage

  • The engine started sputtering before it finally stalled.
  • The old generator was sputtering and needed repairs.
  • The fireworks sputtered before they finally exploded.
Context #2 | Verb

speaking

In the context of speech, sputtering indicates speaking in a hesitant or stumbling manner, often due to nervousness or excitement. This can involve the repeated uttering of sounds or words, making the speech less coherent.

Synonyms

faltering, stammering, stuttering.

Examples of usage

  • He began sputtering his words during the presentation.
  • She sputtered out an apology, unsure of what to say.
  • His excitement caused him to sputter when trying to explain the news.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Sputtering can occur in various physical contexts; for example, gas engines often sputter when theyโ€™re low on fuel or have a blockage.
  • In physics, sputtering is a process where atoms are ejected from a target material due to bombardment by energetic particles.

Technology

  • In electronics, sputtering is used to deposit thin films of materials, which are vital in making computer chips and solar panels.
  • Sputtering is also a technique used in vacuum coating processes to enhance surfaces with metals and other materials.

Literature

  • Sputtering often appears in descriptive writing to convey feelings of anxiety, excitement, or frustration, capturing a characterโ€™s emotions.
  • Authors use sputtering dialogue to illustrate how characters struggle to express their thoughts clearly, emphasizing tension.

Pop Culture

  • In film and TV, characters who sputter when they speak create comedic moments, often emphasizing surprise or indignation.
  • Sputtering engines have become iconic in film, often representing a car on its last legs or a chase scene gone wrong.

Origin of 'sputtering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Middle English term 'sputtren,' which meant to spit or spray.
  • It may be related to the Old Dutch word 'spatteren,' also meaning to scatter or splash.

The word 'sputter' has its origins in the Middle English 'sputtren', meaning to spit or to project. Its roots can be traced back to the Old English 'sputtan', which also indicates ejecting liquid or small particles. The contemporary use of 'sputtering' has evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including both mechanical and verbal contexts. The shift in usage over time reflects technological advancements and the way language adapts to describe new phenomena. By the 19th century, 'sputtering' was commonly used to describe the irregular sounds made by engines and machines, imbuing the term with an auditory quality that has persisted in modern usage.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,518, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.