Chattering Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈtʃætərɪŋ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun or Verb

Definition

A gentle, soft, and soothing sound made by a bird, typically a gentle rustling of the feathers on the beak, often associated with contentment, relaxation, or happiness.

Examples

• The chattering of birds in the morning forest was a peaceful start to the day.
• The gentle chattering of the parrot on my shoulder was a soothing sound.

Synonyms

• Tweeting
• Tweet
• Chirping

Antonyms

• Cawing
• Screeching

Additional Information

Chattering is often used to describe the unique sound made by certain birds, such as parrots, pigeons, and canaries. This sound is typically a gentle, repetitive noise, often accompanied by movements of the beak or wings. Chattering can also be used to describe soft, murmured conversations or quiet, soothing noises.

Some birds, such as parrots, are known for their ability to mimic human speech, and their chattering can sometimes be mistaken for actual human conversation. Chattering can also be used to describe the gentle, soothing sounds made by other animals, such as the rustling of leaves or the burbling of a stream.

Etymology

The word “Chattering” originated from the Old English word “cēotian”, meaning “to chatter or talk excessively”. Over time, the term evolved to include the sound made by birds, becoming a distinctive feature of their behavior and communication.

Usage Notes

When using “Chattering” in a sentence, it is essential to contextually describe the sound and the bird making it. For example, “The parrot’s gentle chattering filled the air” or “The pigeons’ loud chattering echoed through the park”.

Cultural References

Chattering has been referenced in various forms of literature and media, such as in the works of poet Walt Whitman and the novel “The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame. The sound has also been used in music, film, and television to create a sense of serenity and tranquility.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• Chatterbox: a person who talks excessively or nonstop

Related Words or Phrases

• Birdsong
• Chirping
• Tweeting

Collocations

• Early morning chattering
• Gentle chattering in the park
• Soft chattering of the parrot

Frequency of Use

Chattering is a relatively rare word in everyday conversation, but it is often used in literary and poetic contexts to describe the soothing sounds of nature.

Common Misspellings

• Chatting
• Chattering
• Chatrering