Gibbering

/ˈɡɪbərɪŋ/ verb

Definition

Speaking rapidly and unintelligibly, usually because you're nervous, excited, or not making sense.

Etymology

From the verb 'gibber,' which likely came from imitative origins in the 17th century, meant to mimic the sound of senseless chatter. It may be related to 'jabber' or 'jibber-jabber.'

Kelly Says

Monkeys and apes also gibber as a form of communication—researchers think our word captures that excited, chattering sound animals make when they're stressed or excited, which is probably why humans gibber the same way!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.