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.

But over the course of this season’s playoff quarterfinals, these historic superpowers saw their high-octane offenses reduced to a sputter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 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 series follows LeBlanc’s Joey Tribbiani to Hollywood — or “Ollywoo,” per his obstructed view of the Hollywood sign — where his acting career will sputter out of and into life.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 24, 2025

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

Randall “no offense, but” Brown starts to sputter.

From "I'll Give You the Sun" by Jandy Nelson