clang

American  

[klang] / klæŋ /

verb (used without object)

1. to give out a loud, resonant sound, as that produced by a large bell or two heavy pieces of metal striking together.

   The bells clanged from the steeples.

   Synonyms:

   jangle, clank, din, clash

2. to move with such sounds.

   The old truck clanged down the street.

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verb (used with object)

1. to cause to resound or ring loudly.

noun

1. a clanging sound.

clang British  

/ klæŋ /

verb

1. to make or cause to make a loud resounding noise, as metal when struck

2. (intr) to move or operate making such a sound

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noun

1. a resounding metallic noise

2. the harsh cry of certain birds

Etymology

Origin of clang

First recorded in 1570–80, clang is from the Latin word clangere to resound, clang

Example Sentences

In a clip posted on Instagram, the German relay team are jumping up and down in celebration when suddenly Strelow's bronze medal comes loose and a metallic clang echoes through the room.

From Barron's • Feb. 9, 2026

The young trio’s minimalist arrangements evoke the clang of downtown post-punk New York, while the new collection’s sly humor and deep well of hooks helped the dissonant turns go down easily.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 25, 2025

A similar incident occurred in January in Germany when a passenger - this time a fare-dodger - clang to the outside of a German high-speed train.

From BBC • Aug. 11, 2025

The first American pope has been a font of endless, odd connections to the New World that clang against the public perception of the ancient Catholic Church.

From Salon • Jun. 18, 2025

I had only meant to comfort him, but as I smelled his sweat and felt the spring of his beard against my cheek, an alarm began to clang inside my body.

From "Jacob Have I Loved" by Katherine Paterson