Definition of chatter

chatterverb

nói chuyện

/ˈtʃætə(r)//ˈtʃætər/

The word "chatter" has a fascinating etymology. It originated in the 14th century from the Old English word "cattian," which means "to prattle" or "to talk excessively." This Old English word is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "*kattiz," which is also the source of the Modern English word "chat." Over time, the spelling of the word evolved from "chattren" to "chatter," and its meaning expanded to include not just gentle conversation but also empty, disorderly, or excessive talk. Today, "chatter" is often used to describe unnecessary or insignificant conversation, as well as the sound of multiple people talking loudly or unpleasantly.

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to talk quickly and continuously, especially about things that are not important

nói nhanh và liên tục, đặc biệt là về những điều không quan trọng

Example:
  • They chattered away happily for a while.

    Họ trò chuyện vui vẻ một lúc.

  • He chattered on happily for about half an hour.

    Anh ấy trò chuyện vui vẻ trong khoảng nửa giờ.

  • He chattered excitedly to his friends.

    Anh hào hứng trò chuyện với bạn bè.

  • We chattered about work.

    Chúng tôi trò chuyện về công việc.

  • The children chattered to each other excitedly about the next day's events.

    Bọn trẻ trò chuyện sôi nổi với nhau về những sự kiện ngày hôm sau.

to knock together continuously because you are cold or frightened

gõ cửa liên tục vì lạnh hoặc sợ hãi

Example:
  • Her teeth chattered as she dressed.

    Răng cô va vào nhau lập cập khi cô mặc quần áo.

to make a series of short high sounds

để tạo ra một loạt âm thanh cao ngắn

Example:
  • The only sounds we could hear were the birds chattering in the trees.

    Âm thanh duy nhất chúng tôi có thể nghe thấy là tiếng chim hót líu lo trên cây.

Related words and phrases

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Idioms

the chattering classes
(British English, usually disapproving)the people in society who like to give their opinions on political or social issues
  • Constitutional reform is popular among the chattering classes.
  • topics being discussed at the breakfast tables of the chattering classes