rattle
UK[ˈrætl]US[ˈrætl]
v
to make a series of short, sharp knocking sounds, especially when being shaken or knocked against something.
v
to cause someone to feel nervous, worried, or upset.
n
a toy or instrument that makes a rattling sound when shaken.
n
a rapid series of short, sharp sounds.
Etymology
the word "rattle" is of middle english origin, derived from the earlier forms "ratelen" or "rotelen." it is a classic example of onomatopoeia, where the word's sound imitates the rapid, sharp, clattering noise it signifies. this formation follows a common pattern in english, particularly for verbs describing sounds, where a repetitive or frequentative action is suggested by the ending. the word's journey is not one of borrowing and combining classical roots, but of native sound symbolism evolving into a stable lexical form with both concrete and metaphorical meanings, such as unsettling someone's nerves.
Analysis
this word is considered unsegmentable into meaningful morphemes based on its modern english spelling. it is an onomatopoeic formation, imitating the sound it describes.
Examples
the windows began to rattle in the strong wind.
the unexpected question seemed to rattle the usually confident speaker.
the baby was happily shaking his colorful plastic rattle.