twang

American  

[twang] / twæŋ /

verb (used without object)

1. to give out a sharp, vibrating sound, as the string of a musical instrument when plucked.

2. to produce such a sound by plucking a stringed musical instrument.

3. to have or produce a sharp, nasal tone, as the human voice.

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verb (used with object)

1. to cause to make a sharp, vibrating sound, as a string of a musical instrument.

2. to produce (music) by plucking the strings of a musical instrument.

3. to pluck the strings of (a musical instrument).

   to twang a guitar.

4. to speak with a sharp, nasal tone.

5. to pull the string of (an archer's bow).

6. to let fly (an arrow).

noun

1. the sharp, ringing sound produced by plucking or suddenly releasing a tense string.

2. a sound resembling this.

3. an act of plucking or picking.

   He gave his guitar strings a twang.

4. a sharp, nasal tone, as of the human voice.

twang British  

/ twæŋ /

noun

1. a sharp ringing sound produced by or as if by the plucking of a taut string

   the twang of a guitar

2. the act of plucking a string to produce such a sound

3. a strongly nasal quality in a person's speech, esp in certain dialects

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verb

1. to make or cause to make a twang

   to twang a guitar

2. to strum (music, a tune, etc)

   to twang on a guitar

3. to speak or utter with a sharp nasal voice

4. (intr) to be released or move with a twang

   the arrow twanged away

Other Word Forms

• twangy adjective

Etymology

Origin of twang

First recorded in 1535–45; imitative

Example Sentences

Every nerve in my body was twanging like the “e” string on a fiddler’s fiddle.

From Literature

I noted just the faintest hint of a country twang.

From Literature

“Keep your eyes on Stan Kroenke,” the colorful Cowboys owner said in his familiar Arkansas twang, easing back in his desk chair.

From Los Angeles Times

Breezy and soothing with a light twang, his singing style allowed for space, letting him take on the role of a storyteller.

From The Wall Street Journal

For those looking for a bit of a country twang in their New Year’s Eve programming, CBS is hosting the ultimate country music party to celebrate the holiday.

From Los Angeles Times