stammer
21 synonyms and 2 antonyms for stammer, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To speak with involuntary repetitions or pauses, unable to get words out smoothly.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
Etymology
From Old English stamerian, related to German stammeln and a distant cousin of the word "stumble."
Full origin of stammer →Frequently asked questions
What does “stammer” mean?
The word “stammer” means to speak with involuntary repetitions or pauses, unable to get words out smoothly. In plain terms, to struggle to get words out smoothly, or the speech condition itself.
How do you pronounce “stammer”?
“Stammer” is pronounced STA-muh (/ˈstæmɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “stammer” in a sentence?
Here is “stammer” used in a sentence: “He stammered an apology before rushing out of the room.”
What is another word for “stammer”?
Words with a similar meaning to “stammer” include balbucinate, balbutiate, croak, drawl, falter and gibber.
What is the opposite of “stammer”?
The opposite of “stammer” — its antonyms — are annunciate and articulate.
What part of speech is “stammer”?
Depending on how it is used, “stammer” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “stammer” come from?
The word “stammer” comes from Old English. From Old English stamerian, related to German stammeln and a distant cousin of the word "stumble.".
How many meanings does “stammer” have?
“Stammer” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to speak with involuntary repetitions or pauses, unable to get words out smoothly.