<p><strong>Verb (used without object):</strong></p><ul><li>To talk rapidly and somewhat incoherently, as when confused, excited, or embarrassed: "When pushed for an explanation, he always spluttered."</li><li>To make a sputtering sound, or emit particles of something explosively, as water dropped onto a hot griddle.</li><li>To fly or fall in particles or drops; spatter, as a liquid.</li></ul><p><strong>Verb (used with object):</strong></p><ul><li>To utter hastily and confusedly or incoherently; sputter: "Out of breath, she spluttered a poor excuse for her lateness."</li><li>To spatter (a liquid, small particles, etc.).</li><li>To bespatter (someone or something).</li></ul><p><strong>Noun:</strong></p><ul><li>Spluttering utterance or talk; noise or fuss.</li><li>A sputtering or spattering, as of liquid.</li></ul>