Prattle

/ˈpræ.təl/ verb

Definition

To talk a lot about unimportant things; to chatter or babble, often in a silly or annoying way.

Etymology

From Middle Dutch 'praten' meaning to talk or chatter. It appeared in English in the 1600s and is likely imitative of the sound of quick, light talk.

Kelly Says

Prattle is one of those onomatopoetic words where the sound actually imitates the action—say it out loud and you can hear the rapid, light chatter it describes.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Historically applied disproportionately to women's speech, coded as frivolous, empty, or annoying; men's equivalent speech was more often described as 'conversation' or 'discussion.'

Inclusive Usage

Use for any gender when describing insubstantial chatter, but recognize historical gendering of women's voices as less serious. Apply standard equally across genders.

Inclusive Alternatives

["chatter","idle talk"]

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