splatter
SPLAT
Splatter (noun) means a messy, scattered pattern left by something striking a surface. Example: “There was a splatter of paint across the tarp.”
noun
1
A messy, scattered pattern left by something striking a surface.
"There was a splatter of paint across the tarp."
2
A horror genre marked by extreme, graphic gore.
"The film is a classic of 1980s splatter horror."
verb
1
To scatter or spray messily across a surface.
"Grease splattered all over the stovetop."
"He splattered paint across the canvas for effect."
How to use splatter
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA messy scatter or spray, or (as a genre) extremely gory horror.
Common pairings
splatter film
blood splatter
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Word forms
- Plural
- splatters
- Third person singular
- splatters
- Past tense
- splattered
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
There was a _____ of paint across the tarp.
Etymology
Of uncertain origin, first recorded in the 1780s — possibly a blend of splash and spatter.
Class of 1780
splatter joined the language around 1780.
See the full Class of 1780 →
Synonyms
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Rhymes for splatter
See all rhymes for splatter →Frequently asked questions
What does “splatter” mean?
The word “splatter” means a messy, scattered pattern left by something striking a surface. In plain terms, a messy scatter or spray, or (as a genre) extremely gory horror.
How do you pronounce “splatter”?
“Splatter” is pronounced SPLAT (/ˈsplætɚ/ in IPA).
How do you use “splatter” in a sentence?
Here is “splatter” used in a sentence: “There was a splatter of paint across the tarp.”
What part of speech is “splatter”?
Depending on how it is used, “splatter” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “splatter” come from?
The word “splatter” dates back to around 1780. Of uncertain origin, first recorded in the 1780s — possibly a blend of splash and spatter.
How many meanings does “splatter” have?
“Splatter” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a messy, scattered pattern left by something striking a surface.
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