splutter

Everyday

1. To speak quickly and with difficulty, making spitting sounds, because you are angry, shocked or embarrassed. tree →
2. To cough or spit noisily, as when choking on food or water. tree →
3. (of an engine or fire) To make a series of short, uneven popping noises. tree →

In the lessons

In stories «spluttered» shows a character is shocked or furious and can't speak smoothly. It also describes a choking cough or an old car engine starting badly. Phrases: «splutter into life», «spluttered with laughter».

Examples

• "But — but — that's not fair!" he spluttered. tree →
• She spluttered when the water went up her nose. tree →
• The old car spluttered and stopped. tree →
• The candle spluttered in the wind. tree →
• I spluttered with laughter at the joke. tree →
• The engine spluttered into life. tree →
• "What do you mean?" spluttered the Prince. tree →

Note

Regular verb; double t. Similar: sputter (more common in the USA for engines), stammer (speaking with breaks).