(pat′ər) v.i.
1. To make a succession of light, sharp sounds.
2. To move with light, quick steps.
—v.t.
3. To cause to patter.
—noun Pattering, or the sound of pattering. [Freq. of PAT¹]

(pat′ər) v.t. & v.i.
To speak or say glibly or rapidly; mumble or recite (prayers, etc.) mechanically or indistinctly.
—noun
1. Glib and rapid talk, as used by comedians, etc.
2. Patois or dialect; any professional jargon.
3. Rapid speech set to music. [Short for PATERNOSTER; from the rapid repetition of the prayer]
—pat′ter·er noun