Crackle: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'crackle' when describing a series of small, sharp sounds, often related to dry or brittle materials that break or fire that pops and sizzles.

• The fire crackled as it burned the dry logs.
• The crisp leaves crackled underfoot as she walked through the forest.

Use 'snap' when describing a sudden, sharp, cracking sound, often associated with breaking something suddenly or a small object making a quick, sharp sound.

• He snapped his fingers to get everyone's attention.
• The twig snapped under his weight as he stepped on it.

Use 'pop' when referring to a short, sharp, explosive sound, such as that made by a balloon or small object bursting or a sound made when opening something sealed.

• The soda can popped open with a satisfying sound.
• She added the kernels to the pan, waiting for them to pop into popcorn.

Use 'crunch' when describing the sound or act of crushing or crumpling something hard or brittle, often related to food or walking on something solid.

• He crunched the potato chips loudly in his mouth.
• The snow crunched under their boots as they walked through the fresh snowfall.

Used to describe a series of small, sharp sounds, often associated with fire or electricity.

• The fire crackled in the fireplace.
• The radio started to crackle with static.

Used to describe a sudden, sharp sound, often when something breaks or when fingers are clicked.

• She heard a snap when the branch broke under her weight.
• He snapped his fingers to get their attention.

Describes a short, sharp sound, like that of a balloon bursting or opening a champagne bottle.

• He heard a loud pop when the balloon burst.
• The champagne bottle opened with a pop.

Often describes the sound of something being crushed or broken, commonly used with food or when walking on gravel or dry leaves.

• She heard the crunch of the fresh snow under her boots.
• The cereal makes a satisfying crunch when you bite into it.