crackle

[ krak-uhl ]

verb (used without object)

, crack·led, crack·ling.

1. to make slight, sudden, sharp noises, rapidly repeated.
2. to form a network of fine cracks on the surface.
3. (of ceramic glaze) to craze.
4. to exhibit liveliness, vibrancy, anticipation, etc.:

   The play crackled with wit.

verb (used with object)

, crack·led, crack·ling.

1. to cause to crackle.
2. to break with a crackling noise.
3. to craze (ceramic glaze).

noun

1. the act of crackling.
2. a crackling noise.
3. a network of fine cracks, as in the glaze of some kinds of porcelain.
4. crackleware.

crackle

/ ˈkrækəl /

verb

1. to make or cause to make a series of slight sharp noises, as of paper being crushed or of a wood fire burning
2. tr to decorate (porcelain or pottery) by causing a fine network of cracks to appear in the glaze
3. intr to abound in vivacity or energy

noun

1. the act or sound of crackling
2. intentional crazing in the glaze of a piece of porcelain or pottery
3. Also calledcrackleware porcelain or pottery so decorated

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackle¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; crack + -le

Example Sentences

She said Chloe asked her if she was going to die, and described hearing her chest "crackle" as she lay next to her.

From BBC

The home of ceramist Raina Lee includes a tree house featuring her pottery as well as a garage studio that houses her pottery wheel, kilns and her crackly volcanic glazes.

From Los Angeles Times

Each time, her voice faded in and out and the line crackled, creating the impression of enormous distance.

From BBC

Advancing up the slopes amid the fog of deadly artillery bomb blasts and the continual crackle of gunfire, the soldier saw many of his comrades fall.

From BBC

Whatever started it, no-one in the deserted, desolate village tried to put the fire out, as it licked and crackled through the kindergarten’s wooden walls and tin roof.

From BBC

Related Words

• sparkle