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Clanking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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clanking

[ˈklæŋkɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sound effect

Clanking refers to a loud, sharp sound often created when metal objects collide or strike each other. This term is commonly used to describe noises made by machinery, metal objects, or even chains. The sound is typically characterized by its resonant and echoing quality, making it easily identifiable in industrial settings. Clanking can also evoke feelings of heaviness or clumsiness due to the mass of the materials involved.

Synonyms

clanging, clattering, rattling.

Examples of usage

  • The clanking of the chains echoed through the alley.
  • He heard the clanking of pots and pans in the kitchen.
  • The machine was clanking loudly, signaling a mechanical issue.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Sound Science

  • Clanking sounds are often produced by metal-on-metal contact, creating vibrations that travel through the air to our ears.
  • Humans perceive clanking as a harsh sound due to the higher frequency of the noise, making it stand out from softer sounds.

Pop Culture

  • Clanking noises are frequently used in movies and video games to emphasize action or conflict, enhancing dramatic moments.
  • In music, clanking can be used to create unique rhythms, adding texture to percussion pieces.

Engineering

  • In mechanical engineering, unnecessary clanking in machines is often a sign of wear or misalignment, indicating maintenance is needed.
  • Sound analysis can be used in engineering to troubleshoot machines, where unusual clanking may signal potential failures.

Cultural References

  • In folklore, the clanking of chains is often associated with ghosts, symbolizing the trapped spirits who linger in the physical world.
  • In traditional fairs, clanking sounds can be heard from carnival games, where players use metal objects to win prizes.

Origin of 'clanking'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'clank' comes from the Middle English 'clanken', which meant to make a loud sound.
  • The roots can be traced back to Old Norse 'klakkr', meaning a noise or sound, linking it to other English words related to noise.

The word 'clank' emerged in the English language in the early 19th century, likely derived from the earlier term 'clank,' which denoted the sound made by hard objects striking each other. Its roots can be traced to the Old Norse term 'klanga,' meaning 'to make a loud noise.' The term originally described the sound of metal objects but evolved to encompass a wider range of clashing sounds. Over time, 'clanking' has become widely associated with industrial machinery and the sounds of metal in various forms of labor. Its usage has expanded in literature and everyday language, often conjuring imagery of metallic environments and heavy machinery.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,114, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.