flutter

English

/ˈflʌtɚ/, /ˈflʌtə/

verb
Definitions
  • (intransitive) To flap or wave quickly but irregularly.
  • (intransitive) Of a winged animal: to flap the wings without flying; to fly with a light flapping of the wings.
  • (transitive) To cause something to flap.
  • (transitive) To drive into disorder; to throw into confusion.
  • (intransitive) To be in a state of agitation or uncertainty.
  • (intransitive) To be frivolous.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English floteren inherited from Old English floterian inherited from Proto-Germanic *flutrōną (be floating), *flutōną (float, swim, flow) affix from English float.

Origin

English

float

Gloss

Timeline

Distribution of cognates by language

Geogrpahic distribution of cognates

Cognates and derived terms