Quick answer
Clatter means a loud rattling series of hard sounds; to make such a noise. It is usually pronounced KLAT-er, and today it is still readable to modern audiences, even if it sounds more deliberate than everyday speech.
Word page
Clatter
Clatter means a loud rattling series of hard sounds; to make such a noise. It belongs to speech, noise, and verbal nonsense and works best in complaints about jargon, gossip, fuss, and the many noises people make with language. It is still understandable today, but it usually sounds more vivid and deliberate than ordinary modern vocabulary.
At a glance
speechnoiseverbal-nonsense
How to say it
Meaning in plain English
In plain English, clatter refers to a loud rattling series of hard sounds; to make such a noise. It is most useful when a plain label would tell the truth but miss the tone, flavor, or comic edge.
Why this word feels absurd
Clatter feels absurd because it has more texture than the plain alternative, giving the idea an extra bit of theatrical, comic, or overbuilt energy.
Origin and history
Clatter is generally traced to imitative English sound word. In modern use, the history matters less than the strong tone the word still carries.
Is this word still used today?
Clatter is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
Example sentences
- The dishes fell with a terrible clatter.
- Boots clattered down the metal stairs.
- The keyboard clatter filled the office.
- A clatter from the hallway interrupted the meeting.
When should you use this word?
Use clatter when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in complaints about jargon, gossip, fuss, and the many noises people make with language.
Similar words
Rattle, Clang, Racket, Din, Commotion
Opposite or contrasting words
Silence, Stillness, Quiet
Common questions
- What does clatter mean? a loud rattling series of hard sounds; to make such a noise.
- How do you pronounce clatter? It is commonly pronounced KLAT-er.
- Is clatter still used today? Clatter is uncommon today, but it still makes sense to modern readers because the tone and meaning come across quickly once you see it in context.
- When should you use clatter? Use clatter when you want a more vivid, characterful choice than the plain everyday alternative. It works especially well in complaints about jargon, gossip, fuss, and the many noises people make with language.
- What words are similar to clatter? Similar words include Rattle, Clang, Racket, and Din.
Editorial note
Edited by Absurd Words. Last updated: May 9, 2026. See the editorial policy for how definitions, examples, labels, and update checks are handled on the site.