Skip to content

schnarren

to rasp, to speak with a rasping voice

verb SHNAH-ren Rare

Also means

to rattle, to buzz

Usage Note

Schnarren describes a harsh, grating voice quality or sound. Eine schnarrende Stimme — a rasping voice. Also used for mechanical rattling. In speech it often suggests an older, coarse or severe vocal tone rather than a soft or melodious one.

Examples

"Der alte Lautsprecher schnarrte, als der Bürgermeister die Eröffnungsrede hielt."

Natural Translation

The old loudspeaker rasped as the mayor gave the opening speech.

Literal Translation

The old loudspeaker rasped, when the mayor the opening-speech held.

Explore German by topic