Rapid, continuous talk, especially the quick speech of entertainers or salespeople; also the sound of quick, light steps or taps.
From 'patter' (to say prayers rapidly), from Latin 'Pater Noster' (Our Father). Originally described fast, mechanical recitation of prayers, then extended to any rapid, formulaic speech patterns by the 16th century.
The word comes from priests racing through Latin prayers, giving us insight into medieval religious practices. The same rapid, rhythmic quality that characterized hurried prayers perfectly describes everything from rain on a roof to a magician's distracting chatter.
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