What does yatter mean?
Yatter is an informal word for talking continuously, often at greater length or with less substance than the subject warrants. As a verb, it is commonly used with the particle “on” to describe someone talking at length about a subject without making much progress. As a noun, yatter names the talk itself, carrying the implication of chatter, repetition, or idle discussion. The expression is chiefly associated with British and Australian English, although it is also understood in North America. Its tone ranges from mildly teasing to openly dismissive: “a bit of yatter” sounds familiar and informal, whereas calling an account “mere yatter” suggests that it is empty or unreliable. Unlike talk, which may be useful, serious, or extended, yatter has a built-in suggestion of excess or triviality. It is therefore especially effective for describing an overlong, aimless, or inconsequential conversation in a conversational, often humorous register.
To talk continuously, especially about trivial matters or at unnecessary length.
"She yattered on about her holiday until everyone changed the subject."
Chiefly intransitive and informal; often connotes aimless or excessive talk.
Continuous talk, especially chatter of a trivial or pointless kind.
"The meeting produced little more than yatter."
Usually an uncountable mass noun.
Yatter is normally used as an uncountable noun.
"There was too much yatter around the table."
Yatter is what happens when a conversation becomes a gear-spinning monologue.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of yatter
Yatter is an English sound-imitative formation intended to suggest rapid, continuous talking. It has been in use since the 18th century and is particularly associated with informal British and Australian English. It belongs to a broad group of English imitative words for noisy or repetitive speech, such as chatter and clatter, rather than deriving from a recoverable inherited root.
Related word forms
How yatter is actually used
Informal and often mildly disparaging. It can suggest animated conversation, but more commonly conveys that the talk is lengthy, repetitive, or lacking substance.