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

Explanation

To crackle is to make short, sharp cracking noises. A roaring fire in your wood stove crackles as it burns. Fires crackle, as small branches pop and snap from the heat, and a voice over an intercom might crackle with static. You could also describe the sound of your feet on dried leaves and branches as you walk through the woods as a crackle. A visual crackle, as opposed to one you hear, appears as tiny cracks in the surface: "I like that crackle effect on your table."

Example Sentences

We go inside people’s private dreams that are shot like old filmstrips and deteriorate with a snap, crackle and pop.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 4, 2026

Hearing the crackle of a small flame — that slightly charred, earthy smell — while a slab of pork fat pops in the cooking kettle, slowly melting down as the base for tonight’s sauce.

From Salon • Jan. 24, 2026

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

From BBC • Sep. 13, 2025

Scatter generously over the chorizo for contrast, support and delightful crackle.

From Salon • Aug. 5, 2025

Pong was trying hard to keep his voice level, but he couldn't hold back the angry crackle in his words.

From "A Wish in the Dark" by Christina Soontornvat

Related Words

• sparkle