The word "rattle" can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to make a series of sharp, quick sounds or to cause someone to feel nervous or confused. For instance, if you shake a container filled with small objects, it creates a rattling sound. As a noun, "rattle" refers to a device or object that creates such a sound, like a baby's toy.
The word "rattle" originates from the Middle English "ratlen," which is from Old English "ratlian," meaning to make a noise like a rattling sound. The concept has been linked to similar sounds in various languages that denote a similar idea of shaking or noise-making.