ぱたぱた

ぱたぱた
adverb, suru verb
flapping; pattering
1. flapping; fluttering
The sound or action of something light flapping repeatedly, such as wings, fabric, or sandals.
(とり)がぱたぱたと(はね)ばたいた。
The bird flapped its wings.
(はた)がぱたぱたと(かぜ)になびいている。
The flag is flapping in the wind.
2. pattering; light quick steps
The sound of light, quick footsteps, often of children or small animals.
子供(こども)がぱたぱたと(はし)ってきた。
The child came running with pattering footsteps.

ぱたぱた describes light, rapid, repetitive movement or sound.

COMMON PATTERNS:

  • ぱたぱた(はし)る: to run with pattering steps
  • ぱたぱた(はね)ばたく: to flap wings
  • ぱたぱたする: to bustle about

CONTRAST:

  • ばたばた: heavier, more frantic flapping or bustling
  • ひらひら: light, graceful fluttering
  • どたどた: heavy, clumsy footsteps