sputter
verb (used without object)
to make explosive popping or sizzling sounds.
has sputtered
-
present perfectof sputter (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
But in recent months, the federal research engine has sputtered, with far fewer new grants awarded or made available than in years past.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 20, 2026
Europe is an important region for Tesla, where its performance has sputtered in recent quarters.
From MarketWatch ● Mar. 20, 2026
But their fortunes are not just explained by their companies successes - their rivals have made less in a year in which China's economy has sputtered.
From BBC ● Oct. 29, 2024
With Thursday’s gains, it is down about 8% for the year as China’s economy has sputtered despite the country’s reopening after it loosened COVID-19 precautions.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 27, 2023
Our mutual affection has been a beakin ever since, though I can’t deny it has sputtered some once in awhile, and burned purty low, tryin’ times like house-cleanin’ an’ wash-days.”
From Winona of the Camp Fire by Margaret Widdemer
