tinkle
verb (used without object)
to give forth or make a succession of short, light, ringing sounds, as a small bell.
tinkling
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present participleof tinkle.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
-
a word derived from
tinkle.
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.
Jefferson’s default prose is 18th-century elevator music, clear and tinkling.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 26, 2026
I wish it sounded like tinkling bells and xylophones.
From Salon ● Jun. 8, 2026
Step closer and you hear the contraption appearing to breathe, a tinkling sound like wind chimes emanating from the cooling mechanism that keeps its innards colder than outer space.
From Barron's ● Dec. 10, 2025
At its most on-the-nose, “Lurker” repeatedly plays the same song: the tinkling 1960’s R&B ballad “I’m Your Puppet.”
From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 2, 2025
She heard a gentle splash and a tinkling sound.
From "Fablehaven" by Brandon Mull
