splutter
verb (used without object)
to talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently, as when confused, excited, or embarrassed.
spluttering
-
present participleof splutter.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
A spluttering labor market looks to be strengthening, with unemployment dipping to 4.3% and workers’ wages rising.
From Barron's ● Feb. 12, 2026
Guardiola's side delivered an spluttering display featuring several squandered chances as they allowed Arsenal to take control of the Premier League title race.
From Barron's ● Jan. 1, 2026
Chances are you know someone coughing and spluttering - hopefully not directly on you - right now.
From BBC ● Oct. 2, 2025
Members of the baby boom generation have been spluttering about “those damn kids” for years — even as they wipe their eyes after watching “Rebel Without a Cause” for the 157th time.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 3, 2024
Hugo laid out all the pieces on the floor and washed his hands in the basin by the bed, which he refilled from the spluttering sink in his tiny kitchen.
From "The Invention of Hugo Cabret" by Brian Selznick
