rattle

Meanings

1. 1
   verb

   To make short, sharp knocking sounds, often by shaking.

   The windows rattled in the strong wind.

2. 2
   verb

   To make someone feel nervous or worried.

   The tough questions clearly rattled the speaker.

3. 3
   verb

   To talk quickly for a long time (usually with on or away).

   She rattled on about her holiday for an hour.

From Middle English ratelen, of uncertain origin; perhaps borrowed from Middle Dutch ratelen or of native origin related to Old English hratele, hrætele (“a plant known for its rustling or rattling sound”), ultimately imitative. The noun (c. 1500) is from the verb.

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