sputter

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

And when they do, the room will sputter, “Wait, how did this not get a single Oscar nomination?”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 10, 2026

To challenge that, he made Clark Kent a nerd, hunching his shoulders, making him sputter with nervousness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

An added benefit: so-called “old-economy” U.S. stocks, including industrials, commodity producers, and financials, could offer refuge if enthusiasm for artificial-intelligence-related stocks begins to sputter.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

The U.S. jobs market had started to sputter well before the government shutdown began in October — and there’s little evidence to suggest businesses are looking to hire lots more workers.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 22, 2025

Again I tried the starter cord, and again nothing happened but a sad sputter.

From "Flush" by Carl Hiaasen