sputter
verb (used without object)
to make explosive popping or sizzling sounds.
sputtered
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past participleof sputter.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 sputter.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
sputterverb (used without object)to make explosive popping or sizzling sounds.
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.
Sales at U.S. retailers in July had the largest decline in 14 months, but not because the economy sputtered.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 14, 2026
Then performance sputtered during the tech bubble and he told clients he was shutting down in March 2000, the bubble’s exact peak.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 23, 2026
Canada's economy had sputtered over the past year, as Trump's tariffs squeezed key sectors like auto-making, forced job losses and sent jitters across the business community.
From Barron's ● Jul. 15, 2026
While Hernández found contact on each of his at-bats, the rest of the team sputtered through six innings.
From Los Angeles Times ● May 26, 2026
Hot tears filled my eyes and my words sputtered out all angry and sad, like water sizzling on a hot tin pan.
From "Moon Over Manifest" by Clare Vanderpool
