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

The early scenes have a certain ponderous solemnity as two hunter-warrior-predator brothers from the Yautja race fight for honor with weapons that combine the clank of all things medieval with modern pizzazz.

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But as Jimmy started down the stairwell his heel caught on a step, and the money went flying—coins bounced down the stairs, clanking and spinning.

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Of his 32 swings, he sent 14 over the fence, including one that clanked off the roof of the right-field pavilion.

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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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