sputtering

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 Jerry wants in his sputtering way to make amends to his brother for the cruel things he did to him when they were younger.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

GDP rebounded in the first quarter and grew at a solid 2% annual rate after sputtering at the end of last year.

From MarketWatch • May 2, 2026

But what’s extra notable about the sputtering tech partnerships of the 2020s is how baldly they smack of desperation.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

Nike’s chief innovation officer, Tony Bignell, is leaving after less than a year in the job amid signs of sputtering turnaround efforts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

He lets go of my waist and waves his hand in front of his purple face until he stops sputtering.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen