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adjective Uncommon

rattling

Rattling (adjective) means Lively and brisk, especially of speech or pace. Example: “She told the story at a rattling pace.”

adjective
1
Lively and brisk, especially of speech or pace.
"She told the story at a rattling pace."
2
Old-fashioned informal word for excellent or splendid.
"They had a rattling good time at the fair."
noun
1
A rapid series of clattering sounds.
"The rattling of the pipes woke him up."

How to use rattling

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishEither a clattering noise, or (old-fashioned) an intensifier meaning "really good."

When to use it

The "excellent" sense ("a rattling good story") is dated and mostly found in older British writing.

Word forms

more rattling comparative, rattlings plural, most rattling superlative

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Related words

Rhymes for rattling

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Frequently asked questions

What does “rattling” mean?

The word “rattling” means lively and brisk, especially of speech or pace. In plain terms, either a clattering noise, or (old-fashioned) an intensifier meaning "really good.".

How do you use “rattling” in a sentence?

Here is “rattling” used in a sentence: “She told the story at a rattling pace.”

What part of speech is “rattling”?

Depending on how it is used, “rattling” can be an adjective and a noun.

Is “rattling” a common word?

“Rattling” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “rattling” have?

“Rattling” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: lively and brisk, especially of speech or pace.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial