pitter-patter

[ pit-er-pat-er ]

noun

1. the sound of a rapid succession of light beats or taps, as of rain, footsteps, etc.

verb (used without object)

1. to produce or move with this sound:

   She pitter-pattered along the hallway.

adverb

1. with such a sound:

   to run pitter-patter through the house.

pitter-patter

/ ˈpɪtəˌpætə /

noun

1. the sound of light rapid taps or pats, as of raindrops

verb

1. intr to make such a sound

adverb

1. with such a sound

   the rain fell pitter-patter on the window

Word History and Origins

Origin of pitter-patter¹

1400–50; late Middle English: a babbled prayer; perhaps imitative

Related Words

• sneak
• traipse