# rattle

> English word · Verb · IPA /ˈɹæ.təl/ · frequency rank #18,409

## Definitions
1. To create a rattling sound by shaking or striking.
2. To scare, startle, unsettle, or unnerve.
3. To make a rattling noise; to make noise by or from shaking.
4. To assail, annoy, or stun with a rattling noise.
5. To scold; to rail at.
6. To drive or ride briskly, so as to make a clattering.
7. To make a clatter with one's voice; to talk rapidly and idly; often with on or away.
8. To experience withdrawal from drugs.

## Etymology
From Middle English ratelen, of uncertain origin; perhaps borrowed from Middle Dutch ratelen or of native origin related to Old English hratele, hrætele (“a plant known for its rustling or rattling sound”), ultimately imitative. The noun (c. 1500) is from the verb.

## Easily confused with
- **rustle** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/rattle-vs-rustle)
- **rate** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/rate-vs-rattle)
- **raffle** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/raffle-vs-rattle)
- **rabble** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/rabble-vs-rattle)
- **Randle** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/randle-vs-rattle)
- **ramble** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/ramble-vs-rattle)
- **rattan** (https://plainspell.com/en/vs/rattan-vs-rattle)

## Common misspellings (7)
`arttle`, `ratle`, `ratlte`, `rattel`, `rattlle`, `rrattle`, `rtatle`

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/rattle