Chatter \Chat"ter\, v. i. [imp. & p. p. Chattered; p. pr. &
vb. n. Chattering.]
[Of imitative origin. Cf. Chat, v. i.
Chitter.]
1. To utter sounds which somewhat resemble language, but are
inarticulate and indistinct.
The jaw makes answer, as the magpie chatters.
--Wordsworth.
2. To talk idly, carelessly, or with undue rapidity; to
jabber; to prate.
To tame a shrew, and charm her chattering tongue.
--Shak.
3. To make a noise by rapid collisions.
With chattering teeth, and bristling hair upright.
--Dryden.
Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) |