verb / noun

natter

NAT-er/nˈætɝ/

Casual talk, often at length.

The friends natter over coffee about the pattern on one friend's sock.

Two older friends linger over nearly finished coffee, cheerfully chatting about the conspicuously patterned sock one has lifted into view.

Etymology

Gnatter meant 'chatter' or 'grumble,' giving natter its connection with aimless talk. The older verb is probably imitative of sound, rather than having a securely identified deeper root.

More examples

They nattered for an hour after the meeting.
A little natter helps pass the time.
Their cheerful natter fills the kitchen.

Forms

natter · natters · nattered · nattering

Similar words

chat: More neutral about how long the casual conversation lasts.
chatter: Suggests quick, light talk, sometimes with little substance.