noun
-
informal a conspicuous mistake (esp in the phrase drop a clanger )
-
something that clangs or causes a clang
Etymology
Origin of clanger
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Its flowers are extravagant, with an extra-long, maroon-purple clanger dangling from each fuchsia bell; its distinctive leaves are heart shaped, with toothed edges.
From Seattle Times • Jan. 18, 2023
"Some night he'll move and other nights he'll stand and play, Some nights he might be a bit out of it and drop the odd clanger but he never coasts."
From BBC • Nov. 18, 2020
Yes he made a clanger against Portugal but that’s only one mistake compared to the repeat calamities endured by many other gloveman.
From The Guardian • Jun. 30, 2018
Not an outright clanger, but nor was that the keeper’s finest hour.
From The Guardian • Dec. 26, 2017
Uri was howling like a wolf, and even as the oven chimney pipes toppled like trees, I laughed and pulled and pulled the clanger rope.
From "Milkweed" by Jerry Spinelli
![]()
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.