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splutter

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈsplʌtə/

KK: /ˈsplʌtər/

intransitive verb
Definition

To make a series of short, explosive sounds, often while speaking in a confused or excited way.


Example

He began to splutter when he realized he had forgotten his lines during the play.


Tense Forms

Past: spluttered

Past Participle: spluttered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear him splutter during the debate last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was hard to take him seriously after that.
Sloth A
I know, he just kept spluttering and couldn't get his point across.
Sloth B
Exactly! It was both funny and a bit embarrassing for him.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stammer
falter
sputter
Antonyms
articulate
enunciate
speak
noun
Definition

A sound that is made when something splashes or sputters, often in a confused or hasty manner.


Example

The engine made a loud splutter before it finally started.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that weird splutter from the engine?
Sloth B
Yeah, it sounded really strange, didn't it?
Sloth A
I hope it’s nothing serious; I don’t want to spend a fortune on repairs.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To speak or make sounds in a quick and unclear way, often due to excitement or confusion.


Example

He began to splutter when he realized he had forgotten his lines.


Tense Forms

Past: spluttered

Past Participle: spluttered


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear him splutter during the presentation yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was hard to understand what he was trying to say!
Sloth A
I know! He seemed so nervous; I almost felt bad for him.
Root Explanation

Splutter → This word originates from Middle English 'spluttren', which is imitative in nature, suggesting a sound made by spitting or sputtering. The word describes the action of making a series of explosive sounds, often while speaking or eating.

Memory Tip

Imagine the sound of something spitting or making explosive noises — that's what splutter means.

Visually Confused Words
sputter
slutter
sputtery
splitter
splatter
sluttery
putter
sputterer
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Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sputter
stammer
gurgle
Antonyms
silence
calm
stillness
Sloth B
Same here! I hope he does better next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
stammer
babble
mumble
Antonyms
articulate
enunciate
clarify