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

Still, the oil market is sputtering, and prices are high, but not stratospheric — yet, said Michael Lynch, president of Strategic Energy & Economic Research, an energy-market consulting firm.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 30, 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

Peter noticed then how quiet it was—silent, actually, except for birdcalls outside and the butter sputtering in the skillet—but that wasn’t it.

From "Pax" by Sara Pennypacker