The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word SMATTER
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More clues leading to the result SMATTER
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Babble" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case babble = smatter.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SMATTER mean?
SMATTER noun- A smattering (small number or amount).
- A smattering (superficial knowledge).
- To talk superficially; to babble, chatter.
- To speak (a language) with spotty or superficial knowledge.
- To study or approach superficially; to dabble in.
- To have a slight taste, or a slight, superficial knowledge, of anything; to smack.