The phrase "gutter out" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /ˈɡʌtər aʊt/. The first syllable "gut" uses the vowel sound /ʌ/ which is a short "uh" sound. The second syllable "ter" uses the consonant sound /t/ and the vowel sound /ə/ which is a short "uh" sound. The third syllable "out" uses the diphthong vowel sound /aʊ/, which is a combination of the sounds /a/ and /ʊ/ and creates a "ow" sound.
Gutter out is a phrasal verb that typically refers to the action of a flame or fire gradually diminishing or extinguishing itself. The term "gutter" in this context is derived from the guttering system, which is used to direct water away from a building. When used metaphorically, gutter also refers to a narrow channel or pathway. The word "out" is used to indicate the completion or termination of an activity, state, or process.
When something "gutters out," it means that it slowly loses its intensity, momentum, or vitality until it finally comes to an end. This can be applied to fires, flames, candles, or any other source of light or heat that gradually fades away. It can also be used figuratively to describe the decline, exhaustion, or failure of an individual's enthusiasm, passion, or interest in a task or objective. For example, one might say that someone's motivation guttered out after facing continuous setbacks or challenges.
In summary, "gutter out" is an idiomatic expression that describes the gradual diminishment or extinguishing of something, whether it refers to a flame or the waning of enthusiasm or energy. It implies a gradual decline until the fire or motivation is eventually snuffed out.