stammer

[/ˈstæmər/]
verb/nounpl: stammers (verb: third person singular); stammers (noun: plural)
gaguejamento (noun); gaguejar (verb)
1. (verb) to speak with involuntary repetition or prolongation of sounds, especially at the beginning of words
He stammered nervously when asked to speak in front of the class.
Ele gaguejou nervosamente quando foi solicitado a falar na frente da turma.
2. (verb) to utter with a stammer; to say while stammering
She stammered out an apology.
Ela gaguejou um pedido de desculpas.
3. (noun) a speech defect characterized by involuntary repetition or prolongation of sounds
His stammer became more pronounced when he was stressed.
Seu gaguejamento se tornou mais pronunciado quando ele estava estressado.
In both American and Brazilian contexts, stammering/gaguejamento is recognized as a speech disorder that affects millions. In modern usage, there is increased sensitivity and awareness around speech impediments, with emphasis on not mocking individuals who stammer. Speech therapy (terapia da fala) is commonly sought to address this condition in both cultures.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
stutterfalterstumblesplutter
Antonyms / Antônimos
fluencyarticulationclarityeloquence

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
gaguejar (verb); gaguejamento (noun)
Most common term used in formal and informal contexts
Rio de Janeiro
gaguejar; gaguejamento
Standard usage, same as general Brazilian
São Paulo
gaguejar; gaguejamento
Standard usage, same as general Brazilian
Portugal
gaguejar (verb); gaguez (noun - more formal/medical)
Portuguese speakers may also use 'tartamudez' for the condition

Related Words

stutterspeech impedimentfluentarticulatehesitatefalter

Related Idioms & Phrases

stammer and stutter - to speak with difficulty and hesitation
without a stammer - without hesitation or difficulty in speech
Look up more words on Fala2Me
The free English-Portuguese dictionary with real Brazilian accents, NYC slang, conjugator and more
Open Fala2Me →