pitter-patter

noun

pit·​ter-pat·​ter ˈpi-tər-ˌpa-tər How to pronounce pitter-patter (audio)
ˈpi-tē-ˌpa-
Synonyms of pitter-patternext
: a rapid succession of light sounds or beats : patter
pitter-patter
ˌpi-tər-ˈpa-tər How to pronounce pitter-patter (audio)
ˌpi-tē-ˈpa-
adverb or adjective
pitter-patter
ˌpi-tər-ˈpa-tər How to pronounce pitter-patter (audio)
ˌpi-tē-ˈpa-
intransitive verb

Examples of pitter-patter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Both also share a mid-aughts sentimentality and a percussive synth line that pitter-patters throughout. — Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2025 The absence of his paws pitter-pattering on the floor really struck a chord. — Jordan Greene, People.com, 4 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

reduplication of patter entry 4

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pitter-patter was in the 15th century

Rhymes for pitter-patter

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Browse Nearby Words

pitter
pitter-patter
pitticite
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Cite this Entry

“Pitter-patter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pitter-patter. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

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Kids Definition

pitter-patter

noun
pit·​ter-pat·​ter
ˈpit-ər-ˌpat-ər,
ˈpit-ē-ˌpat-
: a rapid series of light sounds or beats
pitter-patter
ˌpit-ər-ˈpat-
ˌpit-ē-ˈpat-
adverb or adjective
pitter-patter
 like adverb 
verb

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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pitter-patter

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