pit-a-pat

• Adverbe onomatopéique décrivant un bruit léger, rapide et souvent rythmé, comme celui de petits pas, de gouttes de pluie ou d'un cœur qui bat vite.

An onomatopoeic adverb describing a light, quick, and often rhythmic tapping or pattering sound, such as the sound of light footsteps, raindrops, or a rapidly beating heart.

1. Footsteps soundB2informal

   Describes the sound of light, quick footsteps, often suggesting nervousness or hurry.

   bruit de pas rapides et légers

   • She walked pit-a-pat down the hallway.
   • The children ran pit-a-pat across the wooden floor.
   • He heard the pit-a-pat of someone approaching.

   Synonymespitter-patter

2. Heartbeat soundB2informal

   Describes a rhythmic, quick beating sound, typically of the heart, often due to excitement or fear.

   battement rapide du cœur

   • Her heart went pit-a-pat when she saw him.
   • My heart was beating pit-a-pat before the speech.
   • He felt his heart go pit-a-pat with anticipation.

   Synonymespitter-patter