crackled; crackling
ˈkra-k(ə-)liŋ 
1
a
: to make small sharp sudden repeated noises
the fire crackles on the hearth
b
: to show animation : sparkle
the essays crackle with wit
: to crush or crack with snapping noises
cracklingly
adverb
1
a
: the noise of repeated small cracks or reports
b
2
: a network of fine cracks on an otherwise smooth surface
Examples of crackle in a Sentence
Verb
The logs crackled in the fire.
The leaves crackled under our feet.
Recent Examples on the Web
Kevin Quinitchett, USA Today, 4 July 2025
As the countdown begins, the air crackles with anticipation.
—Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
The tension between Akhtar’s coiled energy and Hoss’s elegant, pained resignation provides a good part of the show’s crackle.
—Elisabeth Vincentelli, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for crackle
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Verb
Fireworks to include crackling crown jellyfish, atomic rings, yellow & green sunbursts, strobing lemon cascades and comet fans.
—Kevin Quinitchett, USA Today, 4 July 2025
As the countdown begins, the air crackles with anticipation.
—Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
Noun
The whiskey adds a just-noticeable crackle of heat, but the cream and coffee pleasantly soothe the alcohol's sting.
—Bradley Hohulin, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
The tension between Akhtar’s coiled energy and Hoss’s elegant, pained resignation provides a good part of the show’s crackle.
—Elisabeth Vincentelli, New York Times, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for crackle
Cite this Entry
“Crackle.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crackle. Accessed 14 Jul. 2025.
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