Babbling

/ˈbæb.lɪŋ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The action or sound of babbling.
The babbling of the brook created a serene atmosphere.
Incoherent or nonsensical talk.
His babbling during the meeting made it hard to concentrate on the important issues.
verb
To talk rapidly and continuously in a foolish or excited way.
The children were babbling with excitement about the upcoming field trip.
To make meaningless or incomprehensible sounds.
The baby was babbling happily in its crib.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'bable' which means to utter a series of meaningless sounds, akin to 'baby talk'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

babbling brook
A small stream of water that makes a soft murmuring sound.
babble on
To talk continuously without making much sense.
baby babble
Early speech sounds made by infants.

Related Words

babble
To engage in rapid, incoherent speech.
babbler
A person who talks excessively or without much meaning.
babbling brook
A stream of flowing water that makes a bubbling, pleasant sound.

Slang Meanings

Talking nonsense or blabbering.
Stop your babbling, no one wants to hear that!
Being overly chatty or loquacious.
She was babbling like a squirrel on caffeine.