rabbit on
Definition
Verb: - To talk continuously, at length, and often in a way that is perceived as trivial, boring, or without a clear point. It implies a one-sided, rambling monologue.
Usage
The verb "rabbit on" is informal and often used critically or humorously to describe someone speaking for too long about something uninteresting. It is typically followed by the preposition "about" to specify the topic. - He rabbited on about his stamp collection for an hour. - I wish she wouldn't rabbit on; I have work to do.
Advanced Usage
- The phrase can be used with adverbs to modify the manner of speaking.
- She just rabbited on mindlessly while we tried to watch the film.
- It often carries a connotation of the speaker being unaware of the listener's lack of interest.
Variants and Related Words
- Rabbit (verb, informal): A shorter form with the same meaning.
- Stop rabbiting and listen!
Synonyms
- Prattle: To talk at length in a foolish or inconsequential way.
- Jabber: To talk rapidly and excitedly but with little sense.
- Blather: To talk long-windedly without making much sense.
- Ramble: To talk or write at length in a confused or inconsequential way.
Related Phrasal Verbs
- Go on (about): To continue talking about something, especially in a tedious way.
- He went on and on about the weather.
Related Idioms
- Talk the hind leg off a donkey: To talk incessantly.
- Once he starts, he can talk the hind leg off a donkey.
Verb
-
talk in a noisy, excited, or declamatory manner
