Clunk: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'clunk' to describe a heavy, dull sound that is typically associated with machinery or something metallic falling or coming into contact.

• The old car gave a clunk as it hit the pothole.
• I heard a clunk coming from the washing machine.

Use 'thud' to describe a heavy, dull sound made by something solid hitting a surface, often indicating weight and impact.

• The book fell off the shelf with a thud.
• He dropped the bag on the floor with a heavy thud.

Use 'clang' to describe a loud, resonant, and metallic sound. It often indicates something metal striking against another hard surface.

• The school bell clanged loudly, signaling the end of the recess.
• I accidentally dropped the pan, and it made a big clang on the floor.

Use 'thump' to describe a dull, heavy sound made by something hitting a surface with force, often used to convey a repetitive or rhythmic impact.

• I could hear the thump of the basketball against the court.
• She gave the door a thump to get someone's attention.

Used to describe a dull, heavy sound, typically when something metal or hard falls or hits something else.

• I heard a clunk as the wrench fell to the ground.
• The door closed with a clunk, echoing through the hallway.

Commonly used to describe a mistake made in a more formal or technical context, such as in computing or a procedural task.

• A critical error caused the system to crash.
• The report was delayed due to a calculation error.

A general term for any wrong action or decision, often used in everyday conversation and applicable to various situations.

• I made a mistake on my homework.
• It was a mistake to leave without saying goodbye.

Refers to a serious or embarrassing mistake, often made due to carelessness or lack of judgment. Usually carries a negative connotation.

• He made a terrible blunder by forgetting his own anniversary.
• The company's financial blunder cost them millions.

Repeating, as it is the same as the first entry, often describing a heavy, ungraceful sound.

• The old machine made a clunking noise every time it started

When illustrating a heavy but softer sound as compared to 'clunk'. Usually describes an object falling or hitting a surface in a significantly muted manner.

• He dropped the bag of sand on the ground with a muffled thud

When referring to a loud, resonant metallic sound usually produced by striking metal objects together. It often suggests a sharp, clear noise.

• She accidentally hit the metal gate with her bike, producing a sharp clang

To depict a deep, rhythmic sound often associated with something large or heavy making contact repetitively, or a single heavy impact.

• The bouncing ball hit the floor with a loud thump