patter
UK[ˈpætə]US[ˈpætər]
v
To make a series of quick, light, tapping sounds.
n
A series of quick, light, tapping sounds.
n
The fast, continuous, and often glib or rehearsed talk of a salesperson, entertainer, etc.
Etymology
The word 'patter' is a classic example of onomatopoeia, a word formed by imitation of a sound. It originated in Middle English as 'pateren', a frequentative form of the verb 'pat', which itself mimics the sound of a light blow or tap. This frequentative suffix '-er' implies rapid repetition, perfectly capturing the essence of a series of light, quick sounds. Over time, the word's meaning extended metaphorically from physical sounds to describe rapid, mechanical speech, likening the flow of words to the sound of light, repeated tapping.
Analysis
The word 'patter' is an onomatopoeic simplex word, formed to imitate the sound it describes. Its functional role is to directly represent a specific auditory experience.
Examples
Rain began to patter against the windowpane.
She heard the patter of little feet running down the hallway.
The comedian's clever patter kept the audience engaged throughout his routine.