chatter
chat-ter · verb
Definitions
verb
- 1.
To talk rapidly or incessantly about trivial matters.
- 2.
Rapid, trivial talk.
- 3.
(of teeth) To knock together repeatedly from cold or fear.
- 4.
A series of short sounds.
- 5.
(of birds or animals) To make a series of short, high-pitched sounds.
Phrases & expressions
- •idle chatter — meaningless conversation
- •the chattering classes — intellectuals who discuss current affairs
Related words
Etymology
From Middle English chateren, of imitative origin, imitating the sound of rapid, repetitive speech or noise.