How Do You Spell CHATTERBOX?

Pronunciation: [t͡ʃˈatəbˌɒks] (IPA)

The word "chatterbox" refers to a person who talks excessively. Its spelling is derived from the sounds of the word itself. The IPA phonetic transcription of "chatterbox" is /ˈtʃætərbɒks/. The initial "ch" sound is pronounced as /tʃ/, followed by the short "a" vowel sound /æ/. The double "t" and "r" sounds are pronounced distinctly, as in "cat-ter-rocks." The final syllable is pronounced as "boks," with a short "o" sound /ɒ/ and a silent "e" at the end.

CHATTERBOX Meaning and Definition

  1. A chatterbox is a person who displays an excessive and continuous tendency to talk, often in a fast and incessant manner. This term is usually used in an informal context to describe individuals who engage in constant conversation and struggle to remain silent. These individuals typically have a strong desire to share their thoughts, ideas, and personal experiences with others, often without giving sufficient opportunity for others to contribute to the conversation.

    A chatterbox tends to dominate discussions and may have difficulty in listening to others or allowing them to speak without interruption. Their natural inclination is to fill any silence with words, even if they are irrelevant or inconsequential. This can be perceived as an irritating or annoying behavior by some individuals who value quietude or prefer balanced conversations.

    Chatterboxes often possess a vivid and lively personality, being engaging and enthusiastic in their communication style. However, their incessant talking may sometimes come across as superficial or lacking substance. While some chatterboxes may be self-aware of their talkative nature, others may be oblivious to the impact of their communication style on those around them.

    The term "chatterbox" can also be used colloquially to describe a person who gossips excessively or engages in idle and meaningless conversations. In this sense, it implies a lack of depth or meaningful content in the talker's interactions.

  2. One that talks idly and incessantly.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CHATTERBOX

Etymology of CHATTERBOX

The word "chatterbox" originated in the early 18th century. It is a compound of two elements: "chatter" and "box".

The term "chatter" comes from the Middle English word "chateren", which means to chat or babble incessantly. This word has Germanic roots and is akin to the Dutch word "kletsen" (to chat) and German word "klatschen" (to gossip).

The word "box" suggests a container or receptacle. In this context, it is used metaphorically to emphasize the notion of a person whose mouth functions like a box, excessively containing and producing chatter or talk.

So, the etymology of "chatterbox" essentially denotes a person who talks excessively or constantly.

Plural form of CHATTERBOX is CHATTERBOXES

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