Definition

Describing something that makes a series of short, sharp noises, often like a rattling sound.

Example

The old car had a rattly engine that made strange noises while driving.

Conversation

Have you heard that old bike of mine?

Yeah, it sounds pretty rattly when you ride it.

I know, I really need to get it fixed soon.

Definitely! It's just too noisy to use like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rattly → The word is derived from "rattle" (from Middle English *ratlen*, meaning to make a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds) and the suffix "-y" (meaning characterized by). Thus, "rattly" describes something characterized by making rattling sounds.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'rattle' which means to make sharp sounds, and remember that 'rattly' describes something that makes those rattling sounds.

Visually Confused Words