View synonyms for

smatter

[ smat-er ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

verb (used with object)

to speak (a language, words, etc.) with superficial knowledge or understanding.
to dabble in.

noun

a slight or superficial knowledge; smattering:
She gets by with only a smatter of musical knowledge.
a small amount or number; smattering:
a smatter of applause; smatters of nervous laughter.

smatter

/ ˈ��æ��ə /

noun

a smattering

verb

rare.
intr to prattle
archaic.
tr to dabble in

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Derived Forms

ˈ��ٳٱ��, noun

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Word History and Origins

Origin of smatter¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English; further origin uncertain; perhaps from Scandinavian; Danish, Norwegian smadre “to splash, smash (to pieces),” Swedish smattra “to clatter, rattle” ( Middle Low German smetern “to chatter”), but the semantic development is unclear

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Word History and Origins

Origin of smatter¹

C14 (in the sense: to prattle): of uncertain origin; compare Middle High German smetern to gossip

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Those who stayed offered a smattering of applause, yet it was an empty gesture.

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It was also around this time a smattering of fans started to voice their frustration with Ange-ball and Postecoglou's lack of tactical plan B.

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The selection before me is just a smattering of the non-cocoa containing alternatives to chocolate that are creeping into the European retail market right now.

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Between the traditional cottages and smattering of shops on the main street, a giant, technicolour mural of Sir Alexander Fleming, the man who discovered penicillin, now looks out over the town.

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The Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival posted its set times for both of its weekends, with a fresh smattering of Millennial guitar rock added.

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Related Words

smatch smattering

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