What does nattering mean?
Nattering means talking continuously, usually at some length and often in a way that suggests complaint, fussing, or an inability to stop. It is especially common in British English, where it can describe a person going on about a grievance or simply chatting endlessly, but it can also characterize the rattling or knocking noise of an old vehicle or machine. The word often carries a mildly disapproving or humorous tone, although it can be used more playfully among friends. Compared with the broader word “chat,” nattering tends to imply persistence and sometimes irritation; compared with “nagging,” it focuses more on the amount of talk than on the demanding nature of it. In contemporary usage, it is informal, vivid, and particularly effective when the speaker wants to suggest that a conversation has become tiresome.
verbTo talk at length, especially in a rapid, continuous, or complaining manner.
- To speak continuously, especially at length or in a complaining way.
"She kept nattering about the delay until everyone was tired of hearing it."
"They sat outside nattering about their neighbours."
"The old engine came back to life with a discouraging nattering sound."
Nattering captures the sound of continuous talk and can carry the comic annoyance of someone who never seems to stop.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nattering come from?
The word's ultimate origin is uncertain. The associated shorter form “natter” became established in British English during the 19th century, initially referring to talking at length. The modern gerund form “nattering” developed directly from that verb and later acquired the additional sense of a continuous mechanical rattling sound.
Related word forms
How nattering is actually used
Chiefly British and informal. It is often mildly critical or humorous when describing someone who talks continuously or complains at length. In descriptions of machinery, it refers to a continuous rattling or knocking sound.
Easily confused with nattering
Nattering emphasizes talking at length, while nagging emphasizes persistent criticism, complaint, or demands for attention.