Utter
/ˈʌtər/
Meaning & Definition
verb
To make a sound or speak.
She did not utter a single word during the entire meeting.
To express audibly; to give voice to.
He was unable to utter his thoughts clearly in front of the crowd.
adjective
Complete; absolute; total.
The performance was an utter failure.
Total; outright.
Their decision to cancel the project was met with utter disbelief.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'outre' meaning 'beyond', from Latin 'ultra'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
utter nonsense
Complete and utter foolishness or absurdity.
utter silence
A total lack of sound.
utter chaos
Complete disorder.
Related Words
utterance
A spoken word, statement, or vocal sound.
uttering
The act of speaking or expressing something.
Slang Meanings
Utterly ridiculous
That excuse is utterly ridiculous!
Utter fail
That was an utter fail in the presentation.