Definition

Adjective 1. Producing a light, sharp, ringing sound, especially like that made when glasses or similar hard objects are tapped together. - This describes the specific high-pitched, metallic sound of light impact.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The clinking glasses signaled the start of the toast. (The glasses making a light ringing sound marked the beginning of the toast.)
  • We could hear the clinking of ice cubes in their drinks. (We could hear the light, sharp sound of ice cubes touching in their glasses.)

Advanced Usage

• Used to evoke an auditory atmosphere, often associated with celebration, bars, or fine dining.
  • The clinking cutlery and murmured conversations created a pleasant background noise in the restaurant.

Variants and Related Words

• Clink (verb): To make or cause to make a light, sharp ringing sound.
  • They clinked their mugs together in celebration.
• Clink (noun): A light, sharp ringing sound.
  • The clink of chains was heard in the distance.

Synonyms

• Tinkling: Making a series of light, clear ringing sounds (often higher-pitched or more delicate than "clinking").
• Chinking: Very similar to clinking, specifically for the sound of metal or glass.

Notes on Meaning

• The primary and most common meaning relates directly to the specific sound. The slang meanings from other dictionaries (e.g., "excellent" or "very") are archaic or highly colloquial and are not part of standard modern English usage as represented in WordNet. The core definition focuses on the auditory quality.

Adjective

1. like the light sharp ringing sound of glasses being tapped