noun

sputtering

noun

A series of short, irregular popping or spitting noises.

"The old engine's sputtering got worse as it warmed up."

In physics, a process of knocking atoms off a surface by bombarding it with particles, used to coat materials with a thin film.

"Sputtering is used in manufacturing to deposit thin metal coatings on glass."

How to Use Sputtering

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe spitting, popping sound something (like an engine) makes when it's struggling to run, or a technical coating process in physics.

Common pairings

sputtering engine sputtering flame

sputterings plural

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The old engine's _____ got worse as it warmed up.

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