Meaning & Definition of word "Rattle"

Rattle

/ˈrætl/

1. A rapid succession of short, sharp noises.
- Example: The rattle of the wind against the windows kept me awake all night.
2. A shaking sound made by certain objects or animals, like a rattlesnake.
- Example: We heard the rattle of the rattlesnake before we saw it.

1. To make a rapid succession of short, sharp noises.
- Example: The truck rattled loudly as it drove over the potholes.
2. To disturb or agitate someone, causing anxiety or nervousness.
- Example: The unexpected news rattled her, leaving her momentarily speechless.
3. To knock together sharply or make noise by moving quickly.
- Example: He rattled the keys in his pocket as he walked.

Middle English, from the Old English 'rǣttan' meaning to shake.

rattle someone's cage:

To annoy or provoke someone.

rattle off:

To say something quickly and without much effort.

rattle your bones:

To create a frightening or unsettling sound.

rattling:

Creating a rapid succession of short, sharp sounds.

rattletrap:

An old or dilapidated vehicle.

Meaning: To complain or gossip excessively.

Example Sentence: All they do is rattle on about the same old stories.

Meaning: To be startled or shocked.

Example Sentence: I was rattled when I heard the news.