verb
jangle
JANG-guhl
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.”
verb
1
To make, or cause something to make, a harsh rattling or clanging sound.
"The keys jangled in his pocket as he walked."
"She jangled her bracelets to get the baby's attention."
noun
1
A harsh rattling or clanging sound.
"The jangle of the shop bell announced a new customer."
How to use jangle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA harsh, rattly clanking sound, like keys or coins knocking together — or making that sound.
Common mistake
In the phrase "jangled nerves," it means on edge or unsettled, not literally noisy.
Common pairings
jangle of keys
jangling nerves
jangle of coins
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Word forms
- Plural
- jangles
- Third person singular
- jangles
- Past tense
- jangled
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
View more →
jingle
jingle-jangle
Related words
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.
