Meaning & Definition of word "Stammer"

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    Stammer

    /ˈstæmər/

    noun:

    • 1. A speech disorder characterized by disruptions in the flow of speech.
      • Example: His stammer often made it challenging for him to speak in front of large audiences.
    • 2. The act of stammering; a momentary hesitation in speech.
      • Example: Her stammer when introducing herself indicated her shyness.

    verb:

    • 1. To speak with involuntary breaks and pauses, or to speak with a spasmodic repetition of sounds.
      • Example: When he got nervous, he would often stammer while trying to express his thoughts.
    • 2. To utter with difficulty; to speak haltingly or with breaks.
      • Example: She tried to stammer out an apology, but her words caught in her throat.

    Etymology

    Middle English stameren, of imitative origin.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    stammering fool:

    Someone who speaks in a disjointed or uneasy manner.

    stammer out:

    To say something with difficulty or after a long pause.

    Related Words

    stutter:

    A speech disorder involving involuntary repetitions or prolongations of sounds.

    speech impediment:

    A condition that affects a person's ability to speak clearly.

    Slang Meanings of stammer

    Meaning: Bumbling

    Example Sentence: He was so bumbling on stage, constantly stammering.

    Meaning: Mumbling

    Example Sentence: She was mumbling her words instead of speaking clearly.