noun
patter
PAT-uh
Patter (noun) means a quick series of light, repeated sounds, like rain hitting a roof or feet running on pavement. Example: “The patter of rain on the tent kept them awake half the night.”
noun
1
A quick series of light, repeated sounds, like rain hitting a roof or feet running on pavement.
"The patter of rain on the tent kept them awake half the night."
"She heard the patter of small feet running down the hallway."
2
Fast, smooth talk, especially the kind used by salespeople, comedians, or auctioneers.
"The salesman's patter was so slick that half the room bought in."
verb
1
To make a series of quick, light tapping sounds.
"Raindrops pattered against the window all evening."
How to use patter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA quick series of light tapping sounds, or rapid, glib talk meant to persuade or entertain.
Common pairings
patter of rain
sales patter
comic patter
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like patter.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- patters
- Third person singular
- patters
- Past tense
- pattered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of rain on the tent kept them awake half the night.
Etymology
From pat plus -er, indicating a repeated action; ultimately imitative of the sound itself.
Related words
Rhymes for patter
See all rhymes for patter →Frequently asked questions
What does “patter” mean?
The word “patter” means a quick series of light, repeated sounds, like rain hitting a roof or feet running on pavement. In plain terms, a quick series of light tapping sounds, or rapid, glib talk meant to persuade or entertain.
How do you pronounce “patter”?
“Patter” is pronounced PAT-uh (/ˈpæt.ɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “patter” in a sentence?
Here is “patter” used in a sentence: “The patter of rain on the tent kept them awake half the night.”
What part of speech is “patter”?
Depending on how it is used, “patter” can be a noun and a verb.
How many meanings does “patter” have?
“Patter” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a quick series of light, repeated sounds, like rain hitting a roof or feet running on pavement.
