Tinkled - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Verb}

sound effect

Tinkled is the past tense of the verb 'tinkle', which refers to the action of making a light, high-pitched ringing sound, often likened to the sound of small bells. This term is commonly used to describe delicate noises that evoke a sense of lightness or playfulness.

Synonyms

chimed, pealed, ringed.

Examples of usage

The wind chimes tinkled softly in the breeze.
She heard the tinkled laughter of children playing outside.
The glass wind catchers tinkled as the door opened.
He tinkled the keys of the piano gently.

Interesting Facts

Music

Tinkling sounds often appear in melodies, commonly used in lullabies or gentle tunes to create a soothing atmosphere.
Many musical instruments can create tinkling sounds, including chimes, bells, and certain types of keyboards.

Nature

Certain birds, like the canary, produce tinkling calls that many find delightful and melodious.
In nature, the sound of water tinkling over stones in a stream creates a soothing and peaceful ambiance.

Literature

In poetry, tinkling sounds are often used to evoke a sense of lightness and joy, creating vivid imagery in the reader's mind.
Writers sometimes use ‘tinkled’ to describe laughter or voices in a carefree setting, enhancing the cheerful mood of the narrative.

Cultural References

Tinkling sounds have been used in various cultures as representations of happiness and celebration, often during festivals.
Many children’s stories and fairy tales include characters associated with tinkling sounds, like fairies or magical creatures, adding to the whimsical nature of the narratives.

Origin of 'tinkled'

Main points about word origin

The word has roots in Middle English, dating back to ‘tinklen’, which suggests a sound made by small objects.
Its origins are linked to the Old English word ‘tincan’, which also carries the meaning of ringing or sounding.

The word 'tinkle' originates from the mid-15th century, derived from the Middle English 'tinklen', which means 'to make a light ringing sound.' This term is thought to be imitative in nature, likely borrowing from the sound it describes. Related words in Old English include 'tincian', which refers to a ringing sound, and these further connect to the concept of tinkling as a sound that is light and melodic. The playful quality of the word captures the essence of the sounds made by small bells or similar objects, which have been part of human culture and soundscapes for centuries. As the English language evolved, 'tinkle' came to describe not only the sound itself but also actions that evoke the same lightness and joy, especially in cultural contexts such as music, nature, and celebrations.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,710 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32707 sentimentalist
32708 pinioned
32709 helmeted
32710 tinkled
32711 marginalize
32712 vituperative
32713 villein
...

Tinkled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations