Patter
Noun
Definition: Rapid, continuous talk, typically used by a comedian or a salesperson to engage the audience or customers.
Synonyms: Chatter, Prattle, Gibberish, Spiel
Antonyms: Silence, Quiet
- The stand-up comedian delivered his jokes with a quick and witty patter.
- The salesman used a captivating patter to persuade customers to buy his products.
- Imagine a comedian talking rapidly and engagingly, like the sound of a drum "patter-pattering".
Verb
Definition: To speak in a rapid and continuous manner, often with quick, light tapping sounds.
Synonyms: Chatter, Prattle, Babble, Jabber
Antonyms: Pause, Hesitate
- The raindrops began to patter on the roof, creating a soothing sound.
- She could hear his footsteps patter down the hallway as he rushed to answer the phone.
- Picture raindrops falling on a rooftop, making a continuous light tapping sound, resembling rapid speech.
Etymology:
From the Middle Dutch "patrilen" meaning "to crackle" or "make a rapid succession of light sounds".
Historical Usage:The word "patter" has been used since the late 16th century to describe both the action of light, rapid steps or tapping sounds, as well as fast-talking or selling techniques.
Related Idioms:
"Patter song"
Explanation:Refers to a style of song, often used in musical theater, characterized by rapid and complex lyrics delivered with precision and speed.
Misconceptions:
Confusing 'patter' (noun) with 'patter' (verb).
Explanation:'Patter' can be both a noun and a verb with different meanings related to rapid speech or tapping sounds.