clank: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2neutral
Quick answer
What does “clank” mean?
a sharp, metallic, resonant sound like that made when heavy pieces of metal strike together.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
a sharp, metallic, resonant sound like that made when heavy pieces of metal strike together.
can also refer to the act of making such a sound, often suggesting mechanical operation, heaviness, or lack of grace.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning or usage.
Connotations
Identical in both dialects. Connotes heaviness, machinery, industrial settings, or medieval armour/weaponry.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both dialects, primarily found in descriptive writing (fiction, journalism).
Grammar
How to Use “clank” in a Sentence
[Subject] clanks[Subject] clanked against [Object]There was a clank of [metal object]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “clank” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The old radiator clanked loudly every morning.
- His armour clanked as he walked down the stone corridor.
American English
- The tools clanked in the metal toolbox.
- The elevator clanked to a stop on the ground floor.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might be used metaphorically: 'The deal fell through with a financial clank.'
Academic
Very rare outside of onomatopoeic studies or descriptive historical texts.
Everyday
Used for descriptive effect when imitating a sound: 'The pipe clanked when I dropped it.'
Technical
Used in engineering or mechanics to describe an undesirable metallic sound indicating a fault or impact.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “clank”
- Using 'clank' for non-metallic sounds (e.g., a wooden door). Confusing with 'clink' (lighter, higher-pitched) or 'clang' (could be more sustained or louder).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is primarily used as both a noun ('a loud clank') and a verb ('the chains clanked').
'Clank' is a single, hollow metallic sound. 'Clang' is often louder, more resonant, or can be prolonged. 'Clink' is lighter and higher-pitched, like glasses touching.
Rarely. It typically describes harsh, jarring, or mechanical noises, often with negative or neutral connotations.
No, it is a low-frequency word used mostly for specific descriptive effect in writing or storytelling.
a sharp, metallic, resonant sound like that made when heavy pieces of metal strike together.
Clank is usually neutral in register.
Clank: in British English it is pronounced /klaŋk/, and in American English it is pronounced /klæŋk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a heavy bank vault door closing – it goes CLANK. The word sounds like the noise it describes.
Conceptual Metaphor
SOUND IS PHYSICAL IMPACT (a clank 'hits' the ears); MECHANICAL/INDUSTRIAL IS LOUD AND METALLIC.
Practice
Quiz
Which scenario is most likely to produce a 'clank'?