▪ I. chutter, v.
(ˈtʃʌtə(r))
[Imit.]
intr. To make a clattering, spluttering noise. Hence ˈchuttering vbl. n., (a) a subdued chirping (E.D.D.); (b) any kind of mechanically produced noise which is constantly repeated.
| 1938 J. Steinbeck Long Valley 155 The chuttering of the Diesel engine. 1948 D. Ballantyne Cunninghams (1963) ii. xix. 209 The mudguards scraped against the tires as it [sc. a car] chuttered into Massey Avenue, and it sounded as though it would fall to pieces any old time. 1961 B. Crump Hang On (1963) 15 An unregistered model A truck with a boiling radiator chuttered round the corner and stopped. 1961 W. Sansom Last Hours S. Lee ii. 27 The typewriters belling and chuttering. |
▪ II. chutter, n. rare.
(ˈtʃʌtə(r))
[f. the vb.]
= chuttering vbl. n. (see prec.).
| 1951 J. Steinbeck Burning Bright i. 2 Came sounds of the developing show..the chutter of gathering people. |