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Crinkle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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crinkle

[ˈkrɪŋkəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

sound

A slight, sharp sound.

Synonyms

crackling, creak, rustle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
crinkle

Used to describe the small, thin folds or wrinkles on something, often used for materials like paper or fabric.

  • She crinkled the candy wrapper and threw it away.
  • The fabric had a crinkled texture.
rustle

Describes a soft, light sound, usually made by something dry and light like leaves, paper, or fabric moving gently.

  • The leaves rustled in the wind.
  • She rustled the papers while searching for the document.
creak

Describes a long, high-pitched sound, usually from something wooden like a door or floor that is old and moves slowly.

  • The old stairs creaked with every step.
  • The door creaked as it slowly opened.
crackling

Refers to a series of short, sharp noises, often associated with fire, cooking, or static electricity. It can also describe the crispy, crunchy part of roast meat.

  • The fire in the fireplace made a soothing crackling sound.
  • The pork crackling was especially delicious.

Examples of usage

  • The crinkle of the paper caught my attention.
  • She could hear the crinkle of the leaves under her feet.
Context #2 | Verb

wrinkled

To make slight, sharp wrinkles or folds in something.

Synonyms

crease, crumple, wrinkle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
crinkle

Generally used to describe small, thin, or fine lines or folds, often on a surface like paper or fabric. It can also describe light facial lines when smiling.

  • The old parchment had delicate crinkles around the edges
  • He crinkled his nose in confusion
wrinkle

Typically used to describe small folds or lines in skin, paper, or fabric. It is often associated with aging when referring to skin.

  • He noticed the first wrinkles around his eyes
  • The new shirt had a few wrinkles from being packed in the suitcase
crease

Commonly used to describe larger, more defined lines or folds, often on fabric or paper after being folded. Creases are usually sharp and straight.

  • Be sure to iron out the creases in your shirt
  • He folded the paper carefully, creating a sharp crease
crumple

Refers to the act of crushing something into irregular folds or wrinkles, often implying a more forceful or careless action. It is often used in a slightly negative context.

  • She crumpled the piece of paper and threw it away
  • The car's fender was crumpled in the accident

Examples of usage

  • She crinkled her nose in distaste.
  • He crinkled the paper before throwing it away.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art and Design

  • Crinkled paper is frequently used in art projects, providing texture and depth to collages and sculptures.
  • In design, crinkling can create visual interest in packaging and product displays, catching the eye of consumers.
  • The technique of crinkling is also applied in fashion, where designers intentionally use crinkled fabrics for a unique look.

Nature

  • Many leaves in nature crinkle as they dry out, which can signify a plant's health or environment.
  • Certain insects have crinkled body shapes that help them blend into their surroundings, enhancing survival.
  • Crinkling can also occur in water surfaces, such as when a breeze blows, creating small waves.

Psychology

  • Crinkling paper, like when opening a snack, can activate the brain's pleasure centers, linking sound to enjoyment.
  • In studying sensory processing, crinkling surfaces can trigger various emotional responses, such as nostalgia or excitement.
  • The act of crinkling can also serve as a stress-relief mechanism, much like fidgeting with small objects.

Literature

  • Authors often use crinkling sounds in their writing to evoke imagery or set a mood, enhancing the reader's experience.
  • In poetry, crinkling paper can symbolize life’s imperfections and the beauty of spontaneity.
  • The crinkle of letters or pages in stories is sometimes used to represent secrets being uncovered or hidden emotions.

Origin of 'crinkle'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'crinkle' has roots in the Old English word 'cringan,' which means to bend or yield.
  • It first appeared in the English language around the 15th century, showing how long people have been using it to describe folds.
  • The term is often used in textiles, where the way fabric crinkles can affect its style and texture.

The word 'crinkle' originated from the Middle English word 'crinklen', which meant to curl or bend. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to include the idea of making a slight, sharp sound or creating wrinkles or folds. The word has been used in English language for centuries to describe various textures, sounds, and actions associated with crinkling.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,432 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.