patter
patter1 definition
pat·ter (pat′ər)
intransitive verb
- to make a patter
- to run or move along so as to make a patter
Etymology: freq. of pat
noun
a series of quick, light taps the patter of rain on leaves
patter2 definition
pat·ter (pat′ər)
transitive verb, intransitive verb
to speak or mumble rapidly or glibly; recite (prayers, etc.) mechanically or thoughtlessly
Etymology: ME pateren < pater, in paternoster, as pronounced in rapid, mechanical recitation
noun
- language peculiar to a group, class, etc., and not generally understood by outsiders; cant; jargon
- the glib, rapid speech of salespeople, comedians, magicians, etc.
- idle, meaningless chatter
Related Forms:
- patterer pat′·terer noun
patter3 definition
pat·ter (pat′ər)
noun
a person or thing that pats
Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
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