What does prated mean?
“Prated” is the past tense of “prate,” a word for talking at length, especially when the talk is foolish, boastful, or tedious. Its tone is generally critical: describing someone as having “prated” implies that they have made a great deal of noise without communicating anything important. The word can be used in relatively formal commentary as well as ordinary conversation, and it often carries a note of contempt or impatience. It is particularly common in expressions such as “prate about” and “prate on.” Although “talked” can be a neutral substitute, replacing “prated” with it may remove the implication of emptiness or exaggeration. The word is useful when you want to characterize speech as excessive rather than simply describe the subject being discussed.
verbTo talk at length, especially in a foolish, boastful, or tiresome way. The word is often used to suggest that someone's speech is empty or excessively talkative.
- To talk at length or excessively, especially about trivial, foolish, or boastful matters.
"He prated endlessly about his achievements while the audience waited for the actual news."
"She prated about her weekend plans until everyone had lost interest."
"The spokesperson continued to prate about the company's success rather than answer the difficult questions."
Calling someone “prated” is a quick way to suggest that their speech has more volume than substance.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does prated come from?
The word comes from Middle English “praten,” meaning to talk or chatter. Its modern form retains the generally disparaging sense of talking excessively or making empty talk. The related noun “prater” denotes a person who talks at length, often with the implication of foolishness or boastfulness.
Related word forms
How prated is actually used
Usually dismissive or mildly disapproving. It can suggest boastfulness, empty talk, or tedious overstatement, depending on context.
Easily confused with prated
“Prated” means talked at length, often foolishly or boastfully, whereas “prayed” means addressed a prayer or religious hope.