prate

UK: preɪt | US: preɪt

Definition
  1. vi. to talk foolishly or at excessive length

  2. vt. to utter idly or without purpose

Structure
prat <chatter>e <verb suffix>
Etymology

The word "prate" originates from Middle Dutch praten ("to chatter"), which evolved into the modern Dutch praten ("to talk"). The root prat- imitates the sound of idle talk, reflecting its onomatopoeic nature. The suffix -e was added in English to form the verb. Over time, "prate" acquired a pejorative tone, emphasizing meaningless or boastful speech.

Examples
  1. He would prate for hours about his trivial achievements.

  2. Ignore her—she’s just prating nonsense again.

  3. The old man prated on, oblivious to his audience’s boredom.

  4. Politicians often prate about reforms without taking action.

  5. Children sometimes prate innocently about things they don’t fully understand.