# rattling

/ˈɹætəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /ɹˈætlɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/rattling
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

very fast or impressive. You use it to describe something moving or happening at a high speed.

For teachers: moving or proceeding with great speed or vigor. Often used in the phrase 'a rattling pace' to describe rapid progress.

## Examples

- The train moved at a rattling pace through the countryside.
- The author tells a rattling good story that keeps the reader interested from the first page.
- Despite the early setbacks, the construction crew worked at a rattling speed to ensure the bridge was completed before the winter storms arrived.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun; often paired with 'good' or 'pace'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.