What does rattily mean?
Rattly is an adverb with two closely related uses. Its less distinctive sense means “in a quick, brisk, or lively manner,” comparable to quickly or rapidly. In British informal English, however, it can also mean “shortly” or “soon,” as in a statement that something will happen “rattly.” The latter usage is the more distinctive feature of the word and is worth recognizing when reading older or British texts. Rattly is uncommon in contemporary conversation, so speakers who use it may sound deliberately traditional, regional, or slightly old-fashioned. In most modern writing, quickly, soon, or shortly will communicate the intended meaning more directly. Although relatively obscure today, the word remains a useful example of how English adverbs can preserve both a literal sense connected with speed and a less predictable idiomatic sense.
adverbIn a quick or lively manner; in British informal use, shortly or soon.
- In a quick, brisk, or lively manner.
- In British informal use, shortly or soon.
"The meeting ended rattly, and we were back at the office within the hour."
"He answered the question rattly and moved on to the next task."
"The results should be available rattly."
Rattly can mean not only “quickly” but also, in British usage, “soon” or “shortly.”
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of rattily
Rattly is an adverb formed from the adjective rattly, which is related to rattle and its derived forms. The verb rattle is an old imitative word, and its historical development is associated with the idea of rapid repeated movement or sound. The adverb's development into the British sense “shortly” or “soon” reflects the older adjective meaning of brisk or quick.
How rattily is actually used
The sense meaning “shortly” or “soon” is chiefly British and informal. The word is uncommon in modern English and may sound old-fashioned in some contexts.