What does sputter mean?
To sputter is to make a sequence of short, irregular sounds, often involving a hiss, cough, or small burst of liquid. The word is particularly common for engines and other machines that run unevenly, as in “the motor sputtered and died,” and it can convey the impression that the machine is struggling or malfunctioning. For people, sputter describes speech that comes out in broken, hurried, or confused bursts. In the expression “sputter and cough,” it suggests repeated interruptions and an inability to proceed smoothly. The verb can also describe liquid being expelled with a hissing sound. Although “splutter” is closely related, “sputter” is especially idiomatic with engines and mechanical equipment. Sputtering therefore combines a precise sound with a broader implication of disruption, difficulty, or intermittent failure.
To make short, irregular hissing or explosive sounds, especially as a motor, engine, or burner operates unevenly.
"The generator sputtered in the night before shutting down."
Common in technical and everyday descriptions of machinery; it can imply malfunction or an imminent failure.
To speak or cough in short, interrupted bursts.
"He sputtered, trying to find an apology."
Often conveys nervousness, embarrassment, or difficulty speaking clearly.
A short, irregular hissing or explosive sound, or a period of speaking in interrupted bursts.
"There was a sudden sputter from the pipe before it went silent."
Less common than the verb, but established in both literal and figurative descriptions.
A sputtering engine is not simply making noise: it is giving you an audible warning that something is going wrong.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sputter come from?
The word “sputter” developed in the early 17th century as an imitative verb for making sputtering sounds. Its spelling and sound reflect a direct representation of the sharp, intermittent noise associated with coughs, burners, and machinery. The word later became established especially in descriptions of engines and motors that fire or run unevenly. Although it resembles forms in several other Germanic languages, its English history is best understood as an imitative formation.
Related word forms
How sputter is actually used
The word is neutral in register but is especially associated with the sound or imperfect operation of machinery. For a person’s speech, it can suggest nervousness, embarrassment, or difficulty in speaking clearly.
Easily confused with sputter
Both words describe irregular or interrupted sounds, but splutter more commonly suggests a sudden burst of coughing, hissing, or sputtering liquid, while sputter is especially frequent for engines and motors.