clank

[ klangk ]

noun

1. a sharp, hard, nonresonant sound, like that produced by two pieces of metal striking, one against the other:

   the clank of chains; the clank of an iron gate slamming shut.

verb (used without object)

1. to make such a sound.
2. to move with such sounds:

   The old jalopy clanked up the hill.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to make a sharp sound, as metal in collision:

   He clanked the shovel against the pail.

2. to place, put, set, etc., with a clank:

   to clank the cell door shut.

clank

/ klæŋk /

noun

1. an abrupt harsh metallic sound

verb

1. to make or cause to make such a sound
2. intr to move or operate making such a sound

Derived Forms

• ˈclankingly, adverb

Other Words From

• clanking·ly adverb
• clanking·ness noun
• clankless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of clank¹

First recorded in 1605–15, clank is from the Dutch word klank sound

Word History and Origins

Origin of clank¹

C17: of imitative origin

Example Sentences

Soon the only sounds were the clank of a shovel and thuds of dirt being moved.

From The Daily Beast

"We are developing our abilities," Abu Sufyan says, as his bullets clank against his camouflage vest.

From The Daily Beast

Nigel would have remonstrated with her, but she had departed, and in a moment he heard the house-door clank behind her.

From Project Gutenberg

The clank of a sword sounds above the measured foot fall on a polished floor.

From Project Gutenberg

The log lurched noisily across lumps and hollows, the chain made a harsh clank, and the wood echoed the thud of heavy hoofs.

From Project Gutenberg

Soon he heard men's voices, and the familiar clank of chains.

From Project Gutenberg

The merry-go-rounds glint and clank under the shadow of a church.

From Project Gutenberg