chattering

Everyday

1. Talking quickly and a lot about small, unimportant things: «The girls were chattering in the corridor.» tree →
2. (of teeth) Knocking together quickly because you are cold or scared: «My teeth were chattering.» tree →
3. (of birds, monkeys, squirrels) Making quick, high, repeated sounds. tree →
4. (of machines) Making quick rattling noises. tree →

In the lessons

In science and health lessons, teeth chattering is a sign of being cold: the body shivers to make heat. In stories chattering children, birds or monkeys fill a scene with noise. «The chattering classes» (UK, informal) means educated people who like to discuss news and politics.

Examples

• We were chattering when the teacher walked in. tree →
• My teeth were chattering after the swim in the cold sea. tree →
• Monkeys were chattering in the trees. tree →
• Stop chattering and listen, please. tree →
• The magpies kept chattering on the roof. tree →
• The old engine was chattering loudly. tree →
• ‘Yes, I am so cold that my teeth are chattering,’ said another. tree →

Note

Double t: chatter. Chattering teeth = cold or fear, not talking. Synonyms: chatting, nattering (UK), gabbing.