sputter

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.

If an oil shock persisted long enough, economic growth could also sputter.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 24, 2026

But over the course of this season’s playoff quarterfinals, these historic superpowers saw their high-octane offenses reduced to a sputter.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 2, 2026

An added benefit: so-called “old-economy” U.S. stocks, including industrials, commodity producers, and financials, could offer refuge if enthusiasm for artificial-intelligence-related stocks begins to sputter.

From Barron's • Jan. 2, 2026

The series follows LeBlanc’s Joey Tribbiani to Hollywood — or “Ollywoo,” per his obstructed view of the Hollywood sign — where his acting career will sputter out of and into life.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 24, 2025

He started to sputter out a response, but she held up a finger.

From "Anger Is a Gift" by Mark Oshiro