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Jangling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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jangling

[ˈdʒæŋɡlɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound-related

To make a harsh, discordant sound, often associated with clanging or ringing. This can refer to metallic noises or any jarring noise that can be irritating.

Synonyms

clang, clatter, rattle.

Examples of usage

  • The keys were jangling in his pocket as he walked.
  • The wind caused the chimes to jangle loudly.
  • She heard the jangling of the chains in the distance.
Context #2 | Noun

sound-related

A sharp, discordant sound produced by the striking of one object against another. It is often associated with annoyance or discomfort due to its loudness.

Synonyms

clanging, clash, ring.

Examples of usage

  • The jangling of pots and pans could be heard from the kitchen.
  • His jangling voice made it hard to concentrate.
  • There was a jangling of metal that indicated a struggle.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Sharp sounds like jangling can cause a heightened sense of alertness, which is linked to the brain's reaction to unexpected stimuli.
  • Jangling noises can lead to feelings of anxiety or discomfort, often making people crave silence or soothing sounds instead.
  • In sound therapy, jangling noises are often used to release tension, although many find them distracting.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'jangling' appears in various song titles and lyrics, often used to evoke feelings of chaos or emotional turmoil.
  • In modern television and films, jangling sounds are frequently utilized to signify danger or an impending conflict.
  • The 'Jangle' genre in music often blends jangly guitar sounds with upbeat melodies, popularized in the 1980s.

Literature

  • Many poets and authors use jangling sounds to create a sense of tension or to reflect emotional states in characters.
  • In literary works, jangling often serves as a metaphor for discord or conflict within a narrative, enhancing themes of disarray.
  • Notable works of fiction sometimes feature jangling sounds as symbolic elements, emphasizing characters' mental states.

Music

  • The jangly sound can be characterized in music as a bright, ringing guitar tone often associated with 'jangle pop' bands from the 1960s.
  • Certain percussion instruments produce jangling tones that are integral to various musical traditions worldwide, adding unique textures to compositions.
  • The use of jangling melodies can evoke nostalgia and add complexity to modern music.

Origin of 'jangling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'jangle' comes from Middle English 'janglen,' which meant to make a discordant noise or to prattle.
  • Related to other sound-related words, 'jangle' has roots linked to words describing harsh or discordant sounds in various languages.
  • Initially used to describe animal sounds, especially in hunting terminology, it has evolved into describing metallic and other sharp noises.

The term 'jangling' originates from Middle English 'janglen', which means to make a discordant noise. The word can be traced back further to the Old French 'jangler', meaning 'to prattle' or 'to chatter', which is derived from an even older root reflecting 'to make noise'. Over time, the connotation evolved to refer specifically to unpleasant or disruptive sounds, particularly those created by metal objects. This reflects the nature of the sound, often described as annoying or irritating, which plays into modern usage. The variety of contexts in which 'jangling' can be applied has expanded, sometimes also encompassing metaphorical uses such as describing a situation or atmosphere full of tension and discord.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,232 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.