Definition of: sputter

(sput′ər) v.i.
1. To throw off solid or fluid particles in a series of slight explosions.
2. To emit particles of saliva from the mouth, as when speaking excitedly.
3. To speak rapidly or confusedly.
—v.t.
4. To throw off or emit in small particles.
5. To utter in a confused or excited manner.
—noun
1. The act or sound of sputtering; especially, excited talk; jabbering.
2. That which is thrown out in sputtering.
3. Trouble; fuss. [Freq. of SPOUT, v.]
—sput′ter·er noun