jangle
Jangle (verb) means to make, or cause something to make, a harsh rattling or clanging sound. Example: “The keys jangled in his pocket as he walked.”
How to use jangle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA harsh, rattly clanking sound, like keys or coins knocking together — or making that sound.
In the phrase "jangled nerves," it means on edge or unsettled, not literally noisy.
Word forms
jangled past tense, jangles plural, jangles singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The keys _____ in his pocket as he walked.
Etymology
From Middle English janglen, "to chatter or argue noisily," from Old French jangler — originally about noisy talk before it settled on the sound of rattling metal.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for jangle
See all rhymes for jangle →Frequently asked questions
What does “jangle” mean?
The word “jangle” means to make, or cause something to make, a harsh rattling or clanging sound. In plain terms, a harsh, rattly clanking sound, like keys or coins knocking together — or making that sound.
How do you pronounce “jangle”?
“Jangle” is pronounced JANG-guhl (/ˈd͡ʒeɪ̯ŋɡəl/ in IPA).
How do you use “jangle” in a sentence?
Here is “jangle” used in a sentence: “The keys jangled in his pocket as he walked.”
What part of speech is “jangle”?
Depending on how it is used, “jangle” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “jangle” come from?
The word “jangle” comes from Old French. From Middle English janglen, "to chatter or argue noisily," from Old French jangler — originally about noisy talk before it settled on the sound of rattling metal.
How many meanings does “jangle” have?
“Jangle” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to make, or cause something to make, a harsh rattling or clanging sound.