Clang: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a loud, resonant metallic sound, often made by striking metal objects together.

• The church bells began to clang at noon
• The blacksmith's hammer clang against the anvil

Describes a conflict or a loud, harsh noise made by striking or hitting something. Typically used for situations of disagreement or physical impacts.

• The warriors clashed swords in battle
• Their opinions clashed during the heated debate

Refers to a series of loud, rattling sounds, often produced by objects hitting or falling against each other repeatedly. Usually associated with a commotion or disorder.

• The dishes clattered when they fell off the shelf
• We could hear the clatter of footsteps down the hall

Describes a discordant, harsh ringing or metallic sound. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting irritation or unpleasantness.

• Her keys jangled in her pocket
• The poorly tuned guitar strings jangled with each strum

Typically describes a loud, resonant metallic sound, often used when referring to heavy metal objects striking each other.

• The hammer hit the anvil with a loud clang
• The bell clanged loudly, signaling the end of the shift

Highlights a conflict or a violent impact between people, ideas, or objects, often producing a loud or harsh noise.

• The swords clashed in the intense battle
• The cymbals clashed, adding drama to the music

Describes a rapid succession of short, sharp noises, often metallic or made by hard objects striking together.

• The dishes clattered in the sink
• He heard the clatter of footsteps on the metal stairs

Refers to a discordant ringing or metallic sound, often with a slightly irritating quality, frequently used for small metal objects.

• The keys jangled in her pocket as she walked
• The wind chimes jangled softly in the breeze