Clang Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clang

[klaล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sound

A loud, sharp sound, like that made when two metal objects are struck together.

Synonyms

clash, clatter, jangle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clang

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
clash

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
clatter

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
jangle

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

Examples of usage

  • The clang of the church bells echoed through the town.
  • The clang of the metal door slamming shut startled the cat.
Context #2 | Verb

metal objects

To make a loud, harsh sound, typically by striking metal objects together.

Synonyms

clash, clatter, jangle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
clang

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
clash

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
clatter

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
jangle

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

Examples of usage

  • The blacksmith would clang the hammer against the anvil.
  • The swords clang as the knights battled.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Sound waves that create a 'clang' can travel at different speeds based on the material they encounter, affecting how we perceive the noise.
  • Metallic objects produce unique sounds due to their density and elasticity, which contribute to the distinctiveness of a 'clang.'
  • The Doppler effect explains how the pitch of a clang might change as the sound source moves, such as a train passing by.

Literature

  • Authors often use the sound of a clang to convey action or conflict, adding excitement to a scene in novels.
  • In poetry, a 'clang' might symbolize chaos or intensity, drawing the readerโ€™s attention to the emotional state of characters.
  • Shakespeare utilizes auditory imagery, where sounds like 'clang' enhance the drama and gravitas of his plays.

Pop Culture

  • Popular movies featuring knights and battles often emphasize clang sounds to enhance fight choreography and intensity.
  • Music genres like heavy metal may use 'clang' sounds in their instrumentals to create a sense of power and energy.
  • Video games frequently use clang sounds for weapons clashing, reinforcing action and immersion for players.

Psychology

  • Auditory stimuli like a clang can trigger intense emotional responses, from excitement to fear, demonstrating how sound affects mood.
  • Researchers study how certain loud sounds can impact focus and concentration, often distracting from tasks at hand.
  • Some people find clang noises bothersome, leading to a phenomenon known as misophonia, where specific sounds cause irritation.

Origin of 'clang'

Main points about word origin

  • The word dates back to the 14th century, likely derived from the Middle English 'clangen,' meaning to ring or sound.
  • It is related to the Old Norse word 'klanga,' which also means to ring or to sound, capturing the essence of noise.
  • In modern usage, it describes not just noise but also has implications in art and music, often expressing drama or tension.

The word 'clang' originated from Middle English 'clangen', which is of imitative origin, representing the sharp sound it describes. It has been used to depict loud, resonant noises, especially those produced by metal objects colliding. The term has evolved over time to symbolize a striking, harsh sound that captures attention.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,125, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.