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

Other Word Forms

• clankingly adverb
• clankingness noun
• clankless 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

Azurá Stevens and Cameron Brink were strong in the key early, but the Sparks clanked jumpers, dribbled into traffic and watched offensive possessions die on the rim in addition to committing eight first-quarter turnovers.

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Not even the digital countdown could generate the sizzling, clanking, sniping roar of chronic, organic anxiety that fueled the first two seasons.

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The clanking of glass bottles can be heard in the security footage.

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It’s not yet 11 a.m., but punk music blasts from the speakers, punctuated by the rumbling and clanking of skateboard wheels on concrete.

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The air thrums with the din of destruction — giant excavators clanking against steel beams, trucks bleating out warning signals as they back into position, green organic material whooshing out of hoses onto finished sites.

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