crackle

American  

[krak-uhl] / ˈkræk əl /

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.

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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 British  

/ 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

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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

Etymology

Origin of crackle

First recorded in 1490–1500; crack + -le

Example Sentences

From their first meeting, the air between them crackles with . . . something.

From Salon

Rampling crackles as a matriarch who can sniff out her kids’ lies and insecurities but has the good manners not to say anything.

From Los Angeles Times

Against her blue hair and bold, pink doll-head suit, the orange backdrop crackled with energy — it was perfect.

From Los Angeles Times

Some are sensory: noticing textures, nailing a bread-crust crackle, assembling a playlist that carries you through chopping and stirring.

From Salon

Dollops of candied citrus gleam like jewels, Turbinado sugar crowns the loaf with a satisfyingly crackly crust, and the coffee whispers beneath it all, cutting through sweetness and coaxing out the pumpkin’s earthy depth.

From Salon

Related Words

• sparkle