jangle

[ jang-guhl ]

verb (used without object)

, jan·gled, jan·gling.

1. to produce a harsh, discordant sound, as two comparatively small, thin, or hollow pieces of metal hitting together:

   The charms on her bracelet jangle as she moves.

2. to speak angrily; wrangle.

verb (used with object)

, jan·gled, jan·gling.

1. to cause to make a harsh, discordant, usually metallic sound:

   He jangled the pots and pans.

2. to cause to become irritated or upset:

   The loud noise of the motors jangled his nerves.

noun

1. a harsh or discordant sound.
2. an argument, dispute, or quarrel.

jangle

/ ˈdʒæŋɡəl /

verb

1. to sound or cause to sound discordantly, harshly, or unpleasantly

   the telephone jangled

2. tr to produce a jarring effect on

   the accident jangled his nerves

3. an archaic word for wrangle

noun

1. a harsh, unpleasant ringing noise
2. an argument or quarrel

Derived Forms

• ˈjangler, noun

Other Words From

• jangler noun
• jangly adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of jangle¹

1250–1300; Middle English janglen < Old French jangler < Germanic; compare Middle Dutch jangelen to haggle, whine

Word History and Origins

Origin of jangle¹

C13: from Old French jangler, of Germanic origin; compare Middle Dutch jangelen to whine, complain

Example Sentences

She recognized that there’s nothing more dramatic than human contradiction, the clash and jangle of self-image and public perception.

From Los Angeles Times

But nerves are jangling inside Labour because of what many see as unforced errors.

From BBC

And because it’s Area, hardware was plentiful in distressed leather jackets jangling and dripping with silver spikes and chain mail.

From Los Angeles Times

In the hours before the final, Pan Wenge’s silver headdress jingles and jangles as she speaks enthusiastically, preparing to cheer on Dongmen village.

From BBC

There’s a cacophony of slamming metal doors, keys jangling, and shouts and screams from inmates as officers race to see what’s happened.

From BBC