splutter
verb (used without object)
to talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently, as when confused, excited, or embarrassed.
spluttered
-
past participleof splutter.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
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.
It left the squad mediocre and unbalanced as expensive new acquisitions spluttered or suffered injuries, while their recruitment team failed to deliver one of their most significant targets.
From BBC ● May 30, 2026
Until recently, the Cuban economy spluttered by on cheap supplies of Venezuelan oil.
From Barron's ● Jan. 30, 2026
Since no one knew who was watching what and when, watercooler chat and even many recap blogs spluttered out.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 11, 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
After a half dozen hard tugs, the motor spluttered to life in a burp of purple smoke.
From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen
