RATTLE AROUND Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "rattle around" is an idiomatic expression that can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. The primary definition refers to the act of moving or being jostled around in a loose, disorderly, and noisy manner. It often implies a lack of stability, control, or organization.
However, "rattle around" can also be used figuratively to describe the state of a person's thoughts or ideas. In this sense, it means that numerous thoughts or ideas are floating around in one's mind, often in a disorganized or disconnected manner. It suggests a lack of clarity or focus in one's thinking or decision-making process.
Moreover, "rattle around" can be applied to describe a situation where a person or object occupies a space that is too large for them. It conveys a sense of emptiness or void due to the inadequacy or underutilization of the available space. This usage can be seen in phrases such as "rattle around in an empty house" or "rattle around in a large suitcase."
Overall, "rattle around" captures the essence of various activities or states involving movement, disorderliness, lack of organization, or disconnection. Whether used literally or figuratively, it conveys a sense of instability, unease, or inefficiency.
Common Misspellings for RATTLE AROUND
- eattle around
- dattle around
- fattle around
- tattle around
- 5attle around
- 4attle around
- rzttle around
- rsttle around
- rwttle around
- rqttle around
- rartle around
- raftle around
- ragtle around
- raytle around
- ra6tle around
- ra5tle around
- ratrle around
- ratfle around
- ratgle around
- ratyle around
Etymology of RATTLE AROUND
The phrase "rattle around" is derived from several different etymological sources.
The verb "rattle" dates back to Old English and is originally derived from the Proto-Germanic word "hratlōną", which means "to cause to sound or rattle". This verb is also related to the Middle Dutch word "rattelen" and the Middle Low German word "ratelen".
The word "around" also has an Old English origin, derived from the Proto-Germanic word "arumbi" or "arnumbi", which signifies "in a circle or in circumference".
When combined, the phrase "rattle around" suggests the action of something or someone moving or being moved noisily and without direction, or being loosely jostled within a surrounding area.
Idioms with the word RATTLE AROUND
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rattle around in
To move or shake about loosely or uncontrollably within a confined space.
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rattle around in sth
To move or be present in a place in a disjointed, noisy, or unsystematic manner, often as a result of being inadequately secured or organized.
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