The word "rattles" is spelled with two syllables and six letters. It is pronounced as /ˈrætəlz/, with the stress on the first syllable. The initial "r" sound is voiced and followed by the short "a" sound. The next two letters "tt" represent a geminate consonant, which means that the "t" sound is held for longer than usual. The final syllable consists of a schwa sound followed by the voiced "l" sound and plural inflection "-s". The word "rattles" refers to a shaking or rattling sound.
Rattles, in noun form, refer to a type of percussion instrument commonly associated with producing a shaking or jingling sound. They are typically made of hollow containers or objects that enclose small items such as beads, pebbles, or pieces of metal. These containers are often constructed from materials like wood, plastic, or metal, and are designed to be handheld or attached to other objects like musical instruments or baby toys. Rattles are known for their distinctive sound created through the movement of the enclosed items, as they strike against the inner surfaces of the container during shaking or rotation.
The verb definition of "rattles" pertains to a series of quick, sharp, and repetitive sounds, closely resembling the sound produced by shaking a rattle. This use of the term often alludes to a noise that is loud, unsettling, or disruptive, and can apply to various situations. For instance, it can describe the sound made by a loose or vibrating object, the noise generated by the rapid movement of a vehicle, or the clattering sounds in a malfunctioning machine. Additionally, the verb can denote the act of causing anxiety, nervousness, or instability, as in a situation that unsettles or perturbs someone. In this sense, it can be used metaphorically to describe a person's emotional state, indicating that they are agitated, uneasy, or disturbed. Overall, "rattles" can refer to both a musical instrument and the action or sound associated with it.
The word "rattles" is derived from the Middle English word "ratelen", which originated from the Old English word "hrætlian". This Old English word, in turn, came from the Proto-Germanic word "hratilon". The etymology suggests that the word has Germanic roots, with the "hrat-" element likely relating to the concept of making a rattling sound.