splutter
verb (used without object)
to talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently, as when confused, excited, or embarrassed.
spluttered
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past participleof splutter.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof splutter.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
splutterverb (used without object)to talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently, as when confused, excited, or embarrassed.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Until recently, the Cuban economy spluttered by on cheap supplies of Venezuelan oil.
From Barron's ● Jan. 30, 2026
The pipeline of talent, once so certain, has spluttered.
From BBC ● Jan. 15, 2026
Indeed, I found myself feeling a personal bond with the calm and implacable voice guiding our progress even as my spouse spluttered and argued.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 1, 2025
Wyman hoped the local population would take proud ownership of the bee in order to protect it, too, but the conversations tailed off, the momentum spluttered, he says.
From Salon ● Mar. 31, 2022
Thorn spluttered, her whole body shaking from the ice-cold water.
From "Witchlings" by Claribel A. Ortega
