A mathematical model of machining chatter has been developed through an analytical approach in order to predict dynamic cutting force from steady-state cutting tests. The model is derived from a pseudo-static geometric configuration of the cutting process by taking into account the fact that the mean friction coefficient fluctuates dynamically responding to variation of the relative speed on the chip-tool interface. The force functions through this derivation can be used to explain all three basic mechanics associated with chatter vibration, namely, velocity dependent, regenerative, and mode coupling effects.