rattle
UK: ˈræt(ə)l | US: ˈræt(ə)l
v. to make a rapid series of short, sharp sounds
v. to cause someone to feel nervous or unsettled
n. a device or toy that produces a rattling sound
n. the rapid succession of short, sharp sounds
rattle = rat<imitative sound> + tle<frequentative suffix>
- rat (imitative sound): Likely derived from the Middle Dutch "ratelen," an onomatopoeic word mimicking the sound of rapid knocking or clattering.
- tle (frequentative suffix): A suffix used in English to indicate repetitive or continuous action (e.g., "sparkle," "dazzle").
Etymology Origin:
The word "rattle" originates from imitative roots, reflecting the sound it describes. The Middle Dutch "ratelen" directly influenced the English form, with the frequentative suffix "-tle" emphasizing the repetitive nature of the sound. This aligns with many English words for sounds (e.g., "clatter," "jingle") that are rooted in auditory imitation.
The baby laughed as she shook the rattle.
The windows rattled during the storm.
His nervous speech made his words rattle.
The snake’s tail produced a warning rattle.
The old train rattled along the tracks.