<p><strong>Verb</strong></p><ul><li>(used with or without object) to speak (a language, words, etc.) with superficial knowledge or understanding.</li><li>to dabble in.</li></ul><p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>a slight or superficial knowledge; smattering: She gets by with only a smatter of musical knowledge.</li><li>a small amount or number; smattering: a smatter of applause; smatters of nervous laughter.</li></ul>