What does patter mean?
Patter is a versatile word for a light, rapid rhythm. As a noun, it can describe the quick tapping of footsteps, the sound of rain striking a surface, or a flow of rapid, often lively talk. As a verb, it describes moving with quick light steps, speaking in a rapid stream, or producing a sequence of small taps. The word is especially useful when the emphasis is on rhythm and repetition rather than on the force or significance of what is happening. Its conversational sense can suggest that someone is talking quickly and perhaps without saying anything especially substantial. Patter is common in everyday English in both British and American usage, and it appears in descriptive writing about weather, movement, and speech.
A light, rapid sound, especially that of quick footsteps or repeated taps; also, rapid continuous talk.
"The soft patter of footsteps stopped outside the door."
The word for rapid talk often implies that the speech is lively, repetitive, or not especially substantial.
To move or speak with quick light repetitions, or to make a light, rapid tapping sound.
"The rain pattered softly on the roof."
When used for speech, patter usually implies rapid, continuous, and often casual talk.
The plural is rare; patter is normally used as an uncountable noun when referring to a sound or manner of speaking.
"The dancers' patters were barely audible against the music."
From the soft tap of quick footsteps to the rapid flow of conversation, patter captures the sound and rhythm of things happening in bursts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of patter
The word patter is generally regarded as imitative in origin, formed to suggest a light, repeated tapping sound. It developed in English during the early modern period and was later extended from describing quick steps or taps to describing rapid speech. Its close sound-pattern relatives include chatter and clatter, which likewise imitate quick, repeated noises.
Related word forms
How patter is actually used
In its sense of talk, patter often carries a mildly dismissive or playful connotation, suggesting rapid speech that may not be especially meaningful. In its sound-related senses, it is especially common in descriptions of footsteps, rain, or repeated light taps.