patter

Everyday

1. A quick, light, tapping sound, like rain or small feet. tree →
2. (verb) To make that sound or move with quick light steps. tree →
3. Fast, clever talk used by a salesperson, comedian or magician. tree →
4. (Scotland, informal) Chat and jokes: «He's got great patter.» tree →

In the lessons

In stories «the patter of rain» or «the patter of tiny feet» helps the reader hear the scene. In everyday life and safety, a salesman's patter can trick you into buying. Phrases: the patter of rain, the patter of tiny feet, sales patter.

Examples

• I love the patter of rain on the roof. tree →
• We heard the patter of the cat's paws. tree →
• Little feet pattered down the hall. tree →
• The magician's patter kept us laughing. tree →
• Don't be fooled by the salesman's patter. tree →
• My uncle in Glasgow has great patter. tree →
• In a few minutes they heard the pattering of tiny feet, and many of the small gray mice came running up to her. tree →

Note

Regular verb: pattered. Do not confuse with «pattern» or «potter». Uncountable as «talk».