DictionarychinkLight metallic ringing
noun / verb

chink

A short, light metallic ringing sound.

The glasses chink lightly as the diners raise them in a toast.

Etymology

An imitation of a light metallic ringing sound. No connection with the opening-word or the ethnic slur is implied.

More examples

  • A faint chink of coins comes from his pocket.
  • The spoon chinked against the metal cup.
  • She hears bottles chinking in the crate.

Forms

chink · chinks · chinked · chinking

Similar words

clang
Clang is generally louder and heavier; chink is a light brief ringing sound.