clunk

word

Definition

A dull, heavy sound made when something hard falls or hits another object. It can also mean to move or put something with a heavy, dull sound.

Usage & Nuances

'Clunk' is informal and usually used for mechanical or metallic sounds, like car doors or dropped tools. Often used as a noun ('a clunk') or verb ('to clunk down'). Not suitable for soft objects. Common collocations: 'with a clunk', 'it clunked loudly'.

Example Sentences

The book fell off the table with a clunk.

basic

He closed the car door with a loud clunk.

basic

There was a clunk when the box hit the ground.

basic

My old bike makes a strange clunk every time I pedal.

natural

He clunked his suitcase down on the floor after a long day.

natural

As soon as the engine started, we heard a loud clunk from under the hood.

natural