Dictionary entry

Chatter

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Chat″ter (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p.Chattered (?); p. pr. & vb. n.Chattering.] [Of imitative origin. Cf. Chat, v. i.Chitter.] 1. To utter sounds which somewhat resemble language, but are inarticulate and indistinct.

The jaw makes answer, as the magpie chatters.

Wordsworth.

2. To talk idly, carelessly, or with undue rapidity; to jabber; to prate.

To tame a shrew, and charm her chattering tongue.

Shak.

3. To make a noise by rapid collisions.

With chattering teeth, and bristling hair upright.

Dryden.