Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Clonked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔨
Add to dictionary

clonked

[klÉ’Å‹kt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

informal usage

To 'clonk' means to hit something heavily or to strike with a dull sound. This term is often used when describing a strong impact, particularly in informal contexts.

Synonyms

bang, bash, hit, thump.

Examples of usage

  • She clonked her head on the doorframe.
  • The hammer clonked against the metal sheet.
  • He clonked the table with his fist in frustration.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

  • The term 'clonked' is often used in cartoons, emphasizing comic impact when a character is hit or falls.
  • In gaming, you might hear 'clonk' when a character takes damage, emphasizing the strength of an attack.
  • Movies often use sound effects that mimic 'clonking' to create comedic or dramatic moments.

Science

  • Sound waves produced by a clonk can illustrate principles of acoustics, showing how different materials produce different sounds.
  • The intensity of the sound can change based on factors like the weight of the object and the surface it strikes.
  • Research into sound indicates that certain frequencies are perceived as more 'clonk-like' due to their sharpness and abruptness.

Psychology

  • Sounds associated with impact, like 'clonk', can trigger alertness as they signal potential danger or surprises.
  • Auditory experiences, such as hearing a loud clonk, can evoke emotional responses ranging from amusement to shock.
  • The brain processes sounds rapidly, attributing meaning and context to the sound of a clonk based on past experiences.

Literature

  • 'Clonked' appears in various literary works to portray sudden conflict or tension, often adding humor or drama.
  • Authors may use the auditory imagery of 'clonk' to help readers visualize and engage with the action in a scene.
  • This sound can be a metaphor for unexpected events disrupting the flow of a narrative.

Origin of 'clonked'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'clonk' originates from the mid-19th century and mimics the sound made when a heavy object hits another surface.
  • Words like 'clonked' are examples of onomatopoeia, where the sound of the word resembles the sound it describes.
  • The word has roots in various dialects of English, reflecting how sounds can evolve in different cultures.

The word 'clonk' is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century as an onomatopoeic term, imitating the sound of a heavy object striking a surface. It captures the essence of a dull, thudding noise and has become a part of informal English, particularly in colloquial speech. As with many slang terms, its usage has evolved over time, finding its place in casual conversations and various contexts. The transformation of 'clonk' from a sound representation to a verb showcases the dynamic nature of language and how it adapts to different modes of expression. Its informal nature also helps to convey strong feelings or actions, granting speakers a way to emphasize the significance of the impact they are describing.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #43,158, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.