Sputter

To sputter is to emit a series of short, explosive sounds, often caused by the irregular ignition of a fuel or the rapid expulsion of liquid or particles. It can also describe a person speaking rapidly and incoherently, often in a state of agitation or excitement, or a device operating unreliably with intermittent operation. Figuratively, it implies something struggling to function effectively or making a small, ineffectual effort. The core meaning revolves around a lack of smooth, continuous action, whether mechanical, verbal, or metaphorical.

Sputter meaning with examples

• The old car's engine began to sputter and cough as it struggled to climb the steep hill, its once-smooth performance replaced by a series of ragged noises. Eventually, with a final, agonizing groan, it came to a complete stop, leaving the passengers stranded. The mechanic suspected a failing fuel pump, needing to address the sputtering issue immediately.
• Overwhelmed with shock, the witness could only sputter out a few fragmented sentences about the robbery, his voice trembling. He stammered incoherently, unable to string together a coherent narrative. The detective patiently waited for him to regain composure, hoping to gather more information once the sputtering subsided and the truth would surface.
• The dying embers in the fireplace sputtered weakly, casting long, dancing shadows across the room before finally fading to darkness. Despite the wood, the fire couldn't gain strength. The failure of the fire's initial burn meant the remaining pieces would lose their glow. No attempt to revive the sputtering, dying fire could change its fate.
• The company's efforts to expand into the new market began to sputter after a promising start, hindered by unforeseen economic downturn and intense competition. Initial investment and optimism faded when sales dipped, and momentum ground to a halt. The board was forced to re-evaluate their strategy to prevent further stagnation and reverse the sputtering performance.