カタカタ

かたかた
adverb, onomatopoeia
clatter; rattle
1. with a clattering or rattling sound
Mimetic word describing a light, repeated tapping or rattling sound, such as typing on a keyboard, teeth chattering, or small objects shaking.
(まど)がカタカタと()っている。
The window is rattling.
(さむ)くて()がカタカタする。
My teeth are chattering from the cold.
キーボードをカタカタと()(おと)()こえる。
I can hear the clatter of someone typing on a keyboard.

カタカタ is an onomatopoeia describing a light, repeated rattling or clattering sound. It suggests small, hard objects tapping against each other.

USAGE:

  • カタカタと + verb (with a clattering sound)
  • カタカタする (to clatter/rattle)
  • カタカタ(おと) (clattering noise)

RELATED ONOMATOPOEIA:

  • ガタガタ: heavier rattling, shaking (louder/rougher than カタカタ)
  • パタパタ: flapping, pattering (lighter sounds)
  • カチカチ: clicking (sharper, more distinct sounds)