What does spluttering mean?
Spluttering means making a sequence of short, irregular noises such as spitting, hissing, popping, or coughing. The word is especially associated with an engine, fire, or other mechanism emitting bursts of sound because moisture, fuel, or some other obstruction is interfering with its normal operation. It can also describe a person speaking in short, abrupt, unsteady phrases, usually because of excitement, embarrassment, or difficulty in being understood. As an adjective, spluttering modifies a noun such as engine, sound, or fire and vividly conveys unstable operation. Though spluttering and sputtering are closely related, spluttering tends to suggest louder, sharper, more recognizable bursts, whereas sputtering often conveys a weaker, continuous, or faltering discharge. The term is useful in both literal and figurative writing because it combines an audible quality with a strong implication of malfunction or disruption.
To make short, irregular spitting, hissing, or popping sounds, especially as a result of moisture or mechanical trouble.
"The kettle spluttered loudly on the stove."
Also used figuratively for speaking or operating in an abrupt, unstable, intermittently obstructed manner.
Making or characterized by short, irregular spitting, hissing, or popping sounds.
"Mechanics worked on the spluttering engine."
Normally occurs before a noun; the form is directly derived from the present participle of splutter.
A spluttering engine turns mechanical trouble into a surprisingly expressive performance: hiss, pop, cough, and repeat.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does spluttering come from?
Spluttering is the present participle of splutter, an English word with an imitative character: its unusual consonant sequence recalls the sharp, irregular sounds it describes. The verb belongs to a family of English sound-based formations associated with spitting, hissing, and sudden bursts, although its precise historical development is less certain than its modern usage suggests.
Related word forms
How spluttering is actually used
The word is vivid and broadly neutral, but it is especially common in narrative or descriptive contexts. As an adjective before a noun, it characterizes something that makes irregular spitting, hissing, or popping sounds.
Easily confused with spluttering
Both words describe irregular or unsteady sounds, but spluttering more strongly evokes sudden bursts of spitting, hissing, or popping, while sputtering often suggests a weaker, intermittent discharge or faltering movement.