clank

American  

[klangk] / klæŋk /

noun

1. a sharp, hard, nonresonant sound, like that produced by two pieces of metal striking, one against the other.

   the clank of chains; the clank of an iron gate slamming shut.

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verb (used without object)

1. to make such a sound.

2. to move with such sounds.

   The old jalopy clanked up the hill.

verb (used with object)

1. to cause to make a sharp sound, as metal in collision.

   He clanked the shovel against the pail.

2. to place, put, set, etc., with a clank.

   to clank the cell door shut.

clank British  

/ klæŋk /

noun

1. an abrupt harsh metallic sound

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verb

1. to make or cause to make such a sound

2. (intr) to move or operate making such a sound

Other Word Forms

• clankingly adverb
• clankingness noun
• clankless adjective

Etymology

Origin of clank

First recorded in 1605–15, clank is from the Dutch word klank sound

Example Sentences

He might have thought the cabin completely deserted but for the sharp scent of burning florals and a muffled clanking from somewhere above.

From Literature

As the sun sank, neighbors began banging spoons on metal pots from inside their homes, the subtle but unmistakable clank of government protests.

From Los Angeles Times

The prison through which he is escorted is a maze of many gates, rusted metal barriers to movement that echo, with every thud and clank, the stymied processes of Soviet justice.

From The Wall Street Journal

It seemed to be coming from all around us, roaring, rattling, creaking, clanking, and it was coming closer all the time.

From Literature

They clanked together in a way that set my teeth on edge as I deposited the whole lot on the floor at Regan’s feet.

From Literature