noun

twang

TWANG

Twang (noun) means a sharp, ringing sound made by a tight string being plucked and released, such as a bowstring or guitar string. Example: “The twang of the bowstring echoed through the forest.”

noun

A sharp, ringing sound made by a tight string being plucked and released, such as a bowstring or guitar string.

"The twang of the bowstring echoed through the forest."

"The guitarist let out a twang before launching into the solo."

A noticeable trace of a regional or foreign accent in someone's speech.

"She still had a slight Texan twang after years abroad."

verb

To make, or cause to make, a sharp vibrating sound.

"He twanged the rubber band against his desk."

How to use twang

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe sharp vibrating sound of a plucked string, or a noticeable accent in someone's speech.

Common pairings

guitar twang twang of an accent twang a string

Word forms

twanged past tense, twangs plural, twangs singular

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Can you complete this real example?

The _____ of the bowstring echoed through the forest.

Etymology

Imitative of the sound itself, echoed in older words like Old English twengan, "to pinch".

Origin: Old English

Synonyms

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nasal twang

Rhymes for twang

Ang hang rang sang bang pang dang fang gang tang nang wang

See all rhymes for twang →

Frequently asked questions

What does “twang” mean?

The word “twang” means a sharp, ringing sound made by a tight string being plucked and released, such as a bowstring or guitar string. In plain terms, the sharp vibrating sound of a plucked string, or a noticeable accent in someone's speech.

How do you pronounce “twang”?

“Twang” is pronounced TWANG (/ˈtweɪ̯ŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “twang” in a sentence?

Here is “twang” used in a sentence: “The twang of the bowstring echoed through the forest.”

What part of speech is “twang”?

Depending on how it is used, “twang” can be a noun and a verb.

Where does the word “twang” come from?

The word “twang” comes from Old English. Imitative of the sound itself, echoed in older words like Old English twengan, "to pinch".

How many meanings does “twang” have?

“Twang” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a sharp, ringing sound made by a tight string being plucked and released, such as a bowstring or guitar string.