Splatter

/ˈsplætər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
a sound or impact made by something splattering; a mark caused by a splatter.
There was a loud splatter as the water balloon hit the ground.
a small quantity of something that has been splattered.
There were splatters of paint on the canvas.
verb
to scatter or splash liquid or small particles in various directions.
The paint began to splatter everywhere as she shook the can.
to cause a liquid to splatter.
He splattered mud on his shoes when he stepped in the puddle.

Etymology

Origin uncertain; possibly a blend of 'splash' and 'scatter'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

splatter zone
An area where splatter is expected, especially in a messy situation.
paint splatter
A technique in art involving splashing paint onto a surface.
blood splatter
The pattern of blood as a result of a violent act.

Related Words

splash
To spatter or scatter a liquid without careful control.
scatter
To cause to separate and go in different directions.
spatter
To scatter or splash liquid in small drops.

Slang Meanings

To mess something up badly.
He totally splattered his computer with that virus.
To go wild or have a chaotic experience.
Last night’s party was a total splatter; everyone was dancing and spilling drinks.