jitter

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun small rapid variations in a waveform resulting from fluctuations in the voltage supply or mechanical vibrations or other sources
  2. noun a small irregular movement

Etymology

Possibly alteration of chitter (“to tremble, shiver”), from Middle English chittern (“to twitter, chatter”). Ultimately onomatopoeic; compare didder and teeter as well as German zittern.

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