flutter
UK: ˈflʌtə | US: ˈflʌtər
vi. to move lightly and quickly; to flap or vibrate rapidly
vt. to cause something to move or vibrate rapidly
n. a quick, light movement; a state of agitation or excitement
The word "flutter" originates from Old English floterian, meaning "to float or fly lightly," derived from Proto-Germanic flutrōną. The root flut- evokes the imagery of rapid, unsteady motion (like wings or leaves), while the suffix -er reinforces the repetitive nature of the action. Over time, it expanded from literal physical movement (e.g., birds fluttering) to metaphorical uses (e.g., heart fluttering with excitement).
The leaves fluttered in the autumn breeze.
She felt her heart flutter when she saw the surprise.
The flag fluttered proudly atop the tower.
He fluttered the pages of his notebook impatiently.
A butterfly fluttered past the window.