Stammered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ—ฃ๏ธ
Add to dictionary

stammered

[หˆstรฆmษ™rd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

speech difficulty

Stammered refers to the act of speaking with involuntary pauses, repetition of sounds, or blocks that disrupt the flow of speech. It is often associated with a speech disorder known as stuttering, where the individual finds it challenging to speak smoothly and may exhibit visible struggle while trying to articulate words.

Synonyms

faltered, hesitated, stuttered.

Examples of usage

  • He stammered through his speech in front of the crowd.
  • She stammered when asked to read aloud.
  • Despite his confidence, he stammered during the interview.
  • The child stammered when he got nervous.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Stammering can be linked to anxiety in some people, as they might feel nervous when speaking in front of others.
  • Studies suggest that early childhood experiences play a role in stammering, meaning family and social environment can influence speech development.

Pop Culture

  • Famous personalities like President Joe Biden and actor James Earl Jones have openly shared their experiences with stammering, raising awareness and inspiring many.
  • Stammering has been depicted in movies and literature, often portraying characters who struggle with communication, which can create empathy.

Science

  • Research indicates that stammering may involve brain areas responsible for speech production, suggesting neurological aspects to this speech pattern.
  • Some studies have explored using new technologies, like brain imaging, to better understand the differences in brain activity in those who stammer compared to fluent speakers.

Literature

  • Stammering is often used in literature to convey a character's emotional struggle, revealing their inner thoughts and conflicts.
  • Writers like Mark Twain and Charles Dickens have included stammering characters, using their speech patterns to add depth and realism.

Origin of 'stammered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word has roots in Middle English, from 'stamer' which means to speak with hesitation.
  • The Old English form 'stammerian' also meant to speak in an uncertain way, showing how the concept has been around for a long time.

The word 'stammer' originates from the Middle English 'stommer', which is related to the Old English 'stamian', meaning to make a noise or stammer. It is believed to have Proto-Germanic roots in the term '*stamลnฤ…', meaning to move unsteadily. Over the years, the term evolved to describe the speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech. In the 18th century, the term became more specifically associated with stuttering, a speech impediment. The diagnosis and understanding of stammering have developed significantly, incorporating various therapies to help individuals manage or overcome their speech difficulties.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,001, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.