crackle

[krak-uhl]

verb (used without object)

crackled, crackling 

1. to make slight, sudden, sharp noises, rapidly repeated.

2. to form a network of fine cracks on the surface.

3. (of ceramic glaze) to craze.

4. to exhibit liveliness, vibrancy, anticipation, etc..

   The play crackled with wit.

verb (used with object)

crackled, crackling 

1. to cause to crackle.

2. to break with a crackling noise.

3. to craze (ceramic glaze).

noun

1. the act of crackling.

2. a crackling noise.

3. a network of fine cracks, as in the glaze of some kinds of porcelain.

4. crackleware.

crackle

/ ˈkrækəl /

verb

1. to make or cause to make a series of slight sharp noises, as of paper being crushed or of a wood fire burning

2. (tr) to decorate (porcelain or pottery) by causing a fine network of cracks to appear in the glaze

3. (intr) to abound in vivacity or energy

noun

1. the act or sound of crackling

2. intentional crazing in the glaze of a piece of porcelain or pottery

3. Also called: crackleware. porcelain or pottery so decorated

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackle¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; crack + -le

Example Sentences

The scorch marks from the fighting that day still mar the walls, and the underbrush of bullet-shattered tiles crackles with Messika’s every step.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The men heard a crackle in their headsets as the radio signal to Mission Control faltered and then failed.

Read more on BBC

The crackle at the heel was enough to draw me in.

Read more on Salon

"It's snap, crackle and pop when I get out of bed."

Read more on BBC

It nudged me to trust a roast chicken with five more minutes, until the skin blistered into crackle and glass.

Read more on Salon

Related Words

• sparkle