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prattle

talk foolishly / idle chatter / babble / stream sound
Intransitive VerbTransitive VerbNoun
past: prattledpp: prattleding: prattling

This term carries a strong connotation of triviality and lack of purpose. When applied to humans, it often suggests a childish or naive quality, implying that the speaker is talking without thinking or is preoccupied with unimportant details. It is generally used in a slightly critical or patronizing tone, though it can be affectionate when describing young children. In a natural context, the word shifts from a social critique to a sensory description. It evokes the rhythmic, bubbling sound of water in a stream, transforming the idea of meaningless noise into something melodic and peaceful.

Meanings

Intransitive Verb

To talk at length in a foolish, inconsequential, or childish manner.

"The children continued to prattle on about their toys for hours."

Transitive Verb
[~ something]

To talk idly or foolishly about a specific subject.

"She spent the entire afternoon prattling on about her new garden."

Noun

Foolish, inconsequential, or childish chatter.

"The constant prattle of the guests became exhausting for the host."

Noun

The sound of a shallow stream flowing over stones.

"The gentle prattle of the brook provided a soothing background noise."

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Last Updated: June 10, 2026Report an Error