How Do You Spell PATTER?

Pronunciation: [pˈatə] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "patter" is unique because it has two consonants, "t" and "r," that are pronounced together. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /ˈpætər/, with the stress on the first syllable. The "t" sound at the end of the first syllable is followed by a rolled "r" sound that begins the second syllable. This phonetic aspect makes the word "patter" memorable, especially in the context of comedy or sales, where a fast and rhythmic speech pattern is often used.

PATTER Meaning and Definition

  1. Patter is a term with multiple definitions, depending on its context and usage.

    As a noun, patter typically refers to a quick, repetitive speech or series of quick, rapid sounds. It often describes the fast-paced, rhythmic speech that is characteristic of certain professions or activities, such as auctioneering, stand-up comedy, or fast-talking salesmen. In this sense, patter is known for its lively, engaging, and often entertaining nature, aiming to capture and hold the listener's attention.

    As a verb, patter refers to the act of speaking quickly and usually in a rhythmic manner. This can indicate the use of persuasive or engaging speech to maintain interest or deceive an audience. For example, a magician might use patter while performing tricks to distract or misdirect the audience's attention.

    Additionally, patter can also refer to the sound made by small, rapid footsteps or light tapping. This definition often relates to the sound made by raindrops hitting a surface, like a roof or windowpane, creating a gentle, steady rhythm.

    Overall, patter encompasses the ideas of rapid speech, entertaining and engaging communication, and repetitive, rhythmic sounds. It is a versatile term that finds its uses in various professional and everyday situations that involve such characteristics.

  2. To make a sound like pats or slight blows repeated often and quickly; to strike, as falling drops of rain.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PATTER

Etymology of PATTER

The term "patter" originated from the Middle English word "patren" or "pateryn", which referred to a quick, rapid, or irregular noise. This Middle English word ultimately derived from the Old Norse "pata" meaning "to pat" or "to tap". Over time, the meaning of "patter" expanded to include the sounds made by footsteps, raindrops, or other quick, light noises. Additionally, "patter" began to refer to rapid, continuous speech or a quick, rhythmic vocal delivery often associated with street vendors, auctioneers, and performers.

Idioms with the word PATTER

  • the patter(ing) of tiny feet The idiom "the patter(ing) of tiny feet" typically refers to the sound or anticipation of children or young ones running or walking around. It symbolizes the presence or arrival of young children or the excitement of a growing family.
  • the patter of tiny feet The idiom "the patter of tiny feet" refers to the sound made by small children or babies walking or running around. It is often used to express the presence or impending arrival of young children or to indirectly refer to the excitement and joy associated with having a family or raising children.
  • patter of tiny feet The idiom "patter of tiny feet" refers to the sound of children running or walking around. It is often used to symbolize or describe the presence or arrival of young children or a growing family.

Similar spelling words for PATTER

Plural form of PATTER is PATTERS

Conjugate verb Patter

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have pattered
you would have pattered
he/she/it would have pattered
we would have pattered
they would have pattered
I would have patter
you would have patter
he/she/it would have patter
we would have patter
they would have patter

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been pattering
you would have been pattering
he/she/it would have been pattering
we would have been pattering
they would have been pattering

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would patter
you would patter
he/she/it would patter
we would patter
they would patter

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be pattering
you would be pattering
he/she/it would be pattering
we would be pattering
they would be pattering

FUTURE

I will patter
you will patter
he/she/it will patter
we will patter
they will patter

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be pattering
you will be pattering
he/she/it will be pattering
we will be pattering
they will be pattering

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have pattered
you will have pattered
he/she/it will have pattered
we will have pattered
they will have pattered

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been pattering
you will have been pattering
he/she/it will have been pattering
we will have been pattering
they will have been pattering

IMPERATIVE

you patter
we let´s patter

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to patter

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was pattering
you were pattering
he/she/it was pattering
we were pattering
they were pattering

PAST PARTICIPLE

pattered

PAST PERFECT

I had pattered
you had pattered
he/she/it had pattered
we had pattered
they had pattered

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been pattering
you had been pattering
he/she/it had been pattering
we had been pattering
they had been pattering

PRESENT

I patter
you patter
he/she/it patters
we patter
they patter

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am pattering
you are pattering
he/she/it is pattering
we are pattering
they are pattering

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

pattering

PRESENT PERFECT

I have pattered
you have pattered
he/she/it has pattered
we have pattered
they have pattered

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been pattering
you have been pattering
he/she/it has been pattering
we have been pattering
they have been pattering

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it patter

SIMPLE PAST

I pattered
you pattered
he/she/it pattered
we pattered
they pattered

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