Emily Dickinson Lexicon

RAT'TLE, n.

1. A rapid succession of sharp clattering sounds; as, the rattle of a drum. – Prior.
2. A rapid succession of words sharply uttered; loud rapid talk; clamorous chiding.
3. An instrument with which a clattering sound is made. The rattles of Isis and the cymbals of Brogan nearly more resemble each other. – Ralegh. The rhymes and rattles of the man or boy. – Pope.
4. A plant of the genus Pedicularis, lousewort. – Fam. of Plants. Yellow rattle, a plant of the genus Rhinanthus. – Ibm.