Clattering

The word 'clattering' describes a series of loud, harsh, rattling sounds, often produced by hard objects colliding with each other or a surface. It suggests a quick succession of these impacts, implying a chaotic or uncontrolled movement. The sound itself is typically jarring and can be caused by objects falling, moving rapidly, or being struck together. 'Clattering' can refer to a singular event or a continuous, ongoing noise, creating a sense of agitation or activity depending on the context. The intensity and duration of the sound can vary, adding layers of descriptive nuance. The sound might be associated with a physical process, like a machine operating or a utensil dropped on a floor or with a metaphorical one, like a group of people arguing.

Clattering meaning with examples

• The old windmill began to turn in the strong wind, its wooden gears clattering loudly as they ground against each other. The rhythmic clattering was a familiar sound in the countryside, a sign of the working farm. It echoed across the fields, a constant presence that defined the landscape, adding to the rural charm.
• She dropped the metal tray, and a sudden, sharp clattering filled the quiet restaurant, making everyone in the room turn towards the source of the noise. Embarrassed, she quickly knelt to gather the fallen silverware, the clattering sound continuing as it bounced against the tile floor. The commotion momentarily disrupted the elegant atmosphere.
• The children, excited after school, ran into the house, their backpacks and school supplies clattering against the furniture as they rushed to drop them. A chaotic clattering filled the hallway as they scrambled to start their homework, their combined energy manifesting as a background noise.
• A sudden downpour started, and the rain began clattering against the corrugated iron roof of the shed. The unrelenting clattering, amplified by the metal, created a symphony of the storm. The clattering intensified with the driving rain, an audible reminder of the wild weather outside.