tinkle
verb (used without object)
to give forth or make a succession of short, light, ringing sounds, as a small bell.
tinkles
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pluralof tinkle.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
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present tense formof tinkle (3rd person singular).present tense
Used to describe things happening now or regularly.
tinkleverb (used without object)to give forth or make a succession of short, light, ringing sounds, as a small bell.
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.
Roberts doesn’t offer much empathy for the poor, diseased critter other than a pause when Ben momentarily ponders his reflection in a pool as Adrian Johnston’s eerie synth-piano score tinkles.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 9, 2026
There’s only so many ways to make guitar tinkles.
From The Verge ● Sep. 15, 2021
The Atlanta rapper 24hrs sing-raps assorted phrases in “Notice,” but all the action is in the track: viscous bass tones stopping and starting, little whistling interjections, double-time boings and swoops and tinkles.
From New York Times ● Feb. 5, 2021
“Though the sun’s eclipse seems final/surely he will rise again,” Ferry sings of his Jesus-figure, while an Elizabethan harpsichord tinkles below.
From The Guardian ● Aug. 20, 2017
The bell tinkles when Miss Larsen opens the door.
From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline
