What does clittering mean?
Clittering describes a quick succession of light, sharp, often metallic sounds, such as those made by coins, keys, cutlery, or small pieces of metal striking one another. The word is usually milder and more delicate than clattering, although the distinction depends on the objects producing the sound and on the context. As an adjective, clittering can modify a noun such as sound, hooves, or metal. As a present participle or gerund, it describes the action itself: coins go clittering, a sign is clittering in the wind, or the clittering of a tool can be heard nearby. The term belongs to an English family of imitative sound words, including clatter and clitter. It is useful because it conveys both sound and movement, often suggesting a brief, restless series of small impacts rather than one sustained noise.
Making or characterized by a rapid succession of light, sharp sounds.
"The jeweller's tray was clittering with loose silverware."
Commonly used before nouns such as sound, metal, or hooves.
Producing a rapid succession of light, sharp, rattling sounds.
"The keys clittered noisily as she searched through her bag."
Usually encountered as the present participle or gerund of clitter, especially in progressive constructions or as an activity noun.
A loose handful of keys can provide a miniature percussion section: just enough metallic clatter to make an ordinary entrance sound unforgettable.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of clittering
Clittering comes from the English verb clitter, which belongs to an imitative family of words associated with light metallic or rattling sounds. The older and more familiar clatter is closely related, while clittering developed as the corresponding present participle and gerund. The sound-based origin is reflected in the word's long-established use for small hard objects striking together.
How clittering is actually used
The word is neutral in register and is especially associated with small metal, glass, or hard objects. It can function as an adjective, as a present participle, or as a gerund; the suffix -ing is not part of the independently lexicalized meaning.
Easily confused with clittering
Clattering generally suggests a louder, heavier, or more forceful series of knocking or rattling sounds, whereas clittering often suggests lighter, sharper sounds from small objects.