# uttering

/ˈətɝɪŋ/ (US) · /ˈʌtəɹɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/uttering
Updated: 2026-10-13

## Definition

making a sound or saying something out loud. In legal situations, it can also mean trying to use a fake document or fake money as if it were real.

For teachers: the present participle of 'utter', referring to the act of vocalising a sound or word. In a legal context, it specifically refers to the crime of knowingly passing or using a forged document or counterfeit currency with the intent to defraud.

## Examples

- She left the room without uttering a single word.
- The defendant was charged with uttering a forged check at the local grocery store.
- The witness remained silent, seemingly incapable of uttering the testimony that would inevitably incriminate his closest associate.

## Synonyms

speaking, voicing, expressing, emit, articulate, pronounce, vocalizing

## Antonyms

withholding

## Usage notes

- When used in a legal sense, it is often paired with 'forgery' as in 'forgery and uttering'.

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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.