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.

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

Near the end of the first, Betts came back to the bench coughing and sputtering, seemingly unable to clear her throat.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

It came from across the fence in the farmyard, a loud, sputtering roar.

From "Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH" by Robert C. O'Brien