Thunk

A thunk is a sudden, dull, heavy sound, often associated with something solid falling or colliding with another solid surface. It can also describe the act of making such a sound. The word often conveys a sense of impact, weight, and sometimes a lack of resonance or vibration, setting it apart from words like 'clang' or 'boom.' It implies a sound that is typically produced when something, especially of some size or weight, strikes something else of similar, or perhaps greater density.

Thunk meaning with examples

• The antique grandfather clock, after toppling from its perch during the earthquake, landed on the hardwood floor with a resounding thunk. The heavy weight of the clock and its solid internal components created a deep, resonating sound that echoed through the silent room, leaving behind shattered glass and fractured wood in a heap. The family winced at the impact.
• As the carpenter placed the large oak beam onto the supporting pillars, a thunk announced its secure placement. The sound of the wood connecting with the cement base of the building meant the foundation of their construction would be secure. He could feel the solid connection, providing a comforting sense of progress and sturdy construction as they were in the process of building their new home.
• He dropped his heavy toolbox onto the concrete, its metal exterior hitting the floor with a loud thunk. The sound startled the quiet library patrons, sending a ripple of hushed murmurs throughout the room as he quickly collected his tools and set about fixing a broken shelf. He glanced around feeling embarrased but carried on with his repairs.
• She wasn't paying attention while reaching to turn off the light, and in that moment she knocked her phone off the nightstand. The phone landed on the wooden floor with a dull thunk, the screen now facing upwards as the silence grew even louder. She quickly picked it up hoping it hadn't cracked or malfunctioned. Her heart skipped a beat.