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DictionaryclankMetallic knocking sound
noun / verb

clank

KLANK/klˈæŋk/

A sharp metallic knocking sound, or making that sound.

The heavy chain strikes the iron with a clank.

Heavy chain links collide against iron gate, strong metallic impact marks.
Etymology

The noun names the sharp metallic sound expressed by the earlier verb. That verb may imitate the sound, may have been suggested by clang and clink, or may come from a Low German source.

In context

Storytime Haven380:45
silent save for the ponderous clank of his footfall.
Sir Nigel ⚔️🌟 | A Tale of Chivalry and Adventure | Arthur Conan Doyle

More examples

  • A loud clank came from the machinery.
  • He heard the clank of a dropped tool.
  • The loose gate clanks whenever the wind moves it.

Forms

clank · clanks · clanked · clanking

Similar words

clang
A clang is a loud, ringing metal sound; a clank tends to be heavier and less resonant.
clink
A clink is a lighter, sharper contact sound than a clank.