flitters, n. pl. Now dial.
(ˈflɪtəz)
[Altered form of fitters, associated with flitter v.]
Fragments, torn pieces; splinters, tatters. Chiefly in phrases, as to dash, break or tear into, to flitters.
| 1620 R. Waller in Lismore Papers (1887) Ser. ii. II. 247 They two are torne all to flitters. 1660 F. Brooke tr. Le Blanc's Trav. 90 They..broak the ship to flitters. a 1734 North Exam. i. ii. §123 (1740) 97 Dashed into Flitters at a Stroke. c 1817 Hogg Tales & Sk. V. 205 Flesh..that was hanging in dark flitters about the spine. |