Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Having a loud, resonant, metallic sound: Describes a sound that is loud, ringing, and typically produced by metal striking metal. The sound is often sharp, reverberating, and can be perceived as harsh or jarring.

Usage Examples

• Adjective:
  • The clanging bells from the tower could be heard across the entire village.
  • We were awakened by the clanging noise of construction work early in the morning.
  • The blacksmith's hammer produced a rhythmic, clanging sound.

Advanced Usage

• Used figuratively to describe a harsh, discordant, or repetitive non-metallic sound:
  • The clanging rhetoric of the political debate was exhausting to listen to. (Here, 'clanging' metaphorically describes speech that is harsh and jarring.)
• "Clanging association" or "clang association": A psychological or linguistic term where words are linked by sound rather than meaning.
  • The poet's use of clanging associations created a unique, musical quality in the verse.

Variants and Related Words

• Clang (verb/noun): To make or the sound of a loud, resonant metallic ring.
  • The gate clanged shut behind him.
• Clangorous (adjective): Full of clang; making a clanging sound.
  • The clangorous atmosphere of the factory was overwhelming.
• Clangor (noun): A continuous, loud, resonant metallic sound.
  • The clangor of the alarm filled the building.

Synonyms

• Clanking: Suggesting a heavier, duller metallic sound.
• Ringing: A clearer, more bell-like resonant sound.
• Jangling: A harsh, discordant, often metallic sound, typically from multiple objects.
• Resonant: Producing a deep, full, reverberating sound.

Related Phrases

• Clang and clatter: A phrase describing a loud, chaotic mixture of metallic noises.
  • The kitchen was a symphony of clang and clatter as the chefs prepared the meal.

Related Idioms

• Sound a clanging note: To introduce a harsh, discordant, or warning element into a discussion or situation.
  • Amidst the optimistic forecasts, the economist sounded a clanging note about potential inflation.

Adjective

1. having a loud resonant metallic sound
   • the clangorous locomotive works
   • a clanging gong