Pronunciation: /ˈpætər/

Definitions of patter

noun a repeated light tapping sound

Example Sentences

A1 I could hear the patter of rain on the roof.

A2 The patter of little feet could be heard running down the hallway.

B1 The patter of applause filled the room after the performance.

B2 The patter of raindrops on the window created a soothing sound.

C1 The patter of hooves could be heard as the horses approached.

C2 The patter of footsteps echoed through the empty hallway.

verb to make a rapid succession of light tapping sounds

Example Sentences

A1 The rain began to patter on the roof.

A2 I could hear the patter of footsteps approaching.

B1 The children's laughter could be heard as they patter around the playground.

B2 The horse's hooves patter softly on the dirt road.

C1 The rhythmic patter of the keyboard filled the quiet office.

C2 The gentle patter of rain against the window was soothing.

Examples of patter in a Sentence

formal The patter of rain on the roof was a soothing sound as I worked in my study.

informal I love the patter of my dog's paws as he runs around the house.

slang The patter of gossip in the office was getting out of control.

figurative The patter of applause filled the room as the speaker finished their inspiring speech.

Grammatical Forms of patter

past tense

pattered

plural

patters

comparative

more patter

superlative

most patter

present tense

patters

future tense

will patter

perfect tense

have pattered

continuous tense

is pattering

singular

patter

positive degree

patter

infinitive

to patter

gerund

pattering

participle

pattered

Origin and Evolution of patter

First Known Use: 1250 year
Language of Origin: Old French
Story behind the word: The word 'patter' originated from the Old French word 'patir' meaning 'to walk or trample'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'patter' evolved to refer to the rapid, continuous talk or chatter, often associated with salespeople or street vendors trying to attract customers. It is also commonly used in the context of actors delivering quick, lively dialogue in performances.