IPA: /klæk/
KK: /klæk/
To make a sharp, abrupt sound, often caused by two hard objects hitting each other.
The horse's hooves clack against the pavement as it trots down the street.
Past: clacked
Past Participle: clacked
A sharp, quick sound made by two hard objects hitting each other, often repeated.
The clack of the typewriter filled the quiet room.
To make a sharp, abrupt sound, often by striking two objects together.
She clacked the two pieces of wood together to get his attention.
Past: clacked
Past Participle: clacked
The word 'clack' originates from Middle English 'clakken', which is imitative in nature, representing the sound made by a sharp, abrupt noise, often associated with the sound of a beak or a similar action. It does not have clear Latin or Greek roots.
Think of the sharp, abrupt sound that something makes when it 'clacks' together, which helps you remember that 'clack' refers to a quick, sharp noise.