What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
featherbrain
Example
I forgot my keys again, I'm such a featherbrain. [featherbrain: noun]
Example
He's always making silly mistakes, what a featherbrain. [featherbrain: adjective]
scatterbrain
Example
I can't find my phone, I must be a scatterbrain today. [scatterbrain: noun]
Example
She's so disorganized, she's always misplacing things. What a scatterbrain. [scatterbrain: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scatterbrain is more commonly used than featherbrain in everyday language. Scatterbrain is a more modern term that is still in use today, while featherbrain may sound outdated or old-fashioned to some people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between featherbrain and scatterbrain?
Both featherbrain and scatterbrain are informal terms that are typically used in casual conversation or writing. Neither word is appropriate for formal or academic contexts.