sputter out
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To emit a series of irregular, erratic popping or spitting sounds before shutting off.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To die.
Register: informal
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “sputter out” mean?
To emit a series of irregular, erratic popping or spitting sounds before shutting off.
Is “sputter out” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.