as in clinking
to make a repeated sharp light ringing sound
the bell around the cat's neck tinkled as he ran across the yard
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of tinkling
The marbled, frescoed, octagonal room was domed to amplify the sound of a tinkling keys at the center, and hosted regular recitals.
—
Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 9 Feb. 2026
The Drawing Room is best for afternoon teas accompanied by a tinkling piano.
—Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Feb. 2026
Transform a handful of old keys into a charming wind chime that adds a gentle, tinkling sound to your outdoor space.
—Katie Cloyd, Martha Stewart, 17 Jan. 2026
Eerie chants, tinkling percussion, zany strings, and plucky swelling piano.
—Grace Byron, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2025
Adriane Quinlan, Curbed, 9 Feb. 2026
The Drawing Room is best for afternoon teas accompanied by a tinkling piano.
—Lydia Bell, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Feb. 2026
Transform a handful of old keys into a charming wind chime that adds a gentle, tinkling sound to your outdoor space.
—Katie Cloyd, Martha Stewart, 17 Jan. 2026
Eerie chants, tinkling percussion, zany strings, and plucky swelling piano.
—Grace Byron, Vulture, 15 Sep. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tinkling
Verb
-
The trek up the swinging staircase, twinkle lights clinking with each step, had my heart pounding for more reason than one.—
Tara Massouleh McCay,
Southern Living,
14 Feb. 2026
-
The photo, which is embedded above, shows the three leading ladies Kerry Washington, Elisabeth Moss and Kate Mara clinking glasses with cheerful looks on their faces.—
Dessi Gomez,
Deadline,
3 Feb. 2026
Verb
-
The live action How the Grinch Stole Christmas led the way, jingling all the way to 669M minutes viewed.—
Katie Campione,
Deadline,
22 Dec. 2025
-
The next signs of the nation’s political divide might be jingling in your pocket next year.—
Chris Isidore,
CNN Money,
12 Dec. 2025
Verb
-
But then, his phone wouldn't stop ringing, different numbers, even threatening violence against the couple and their family.—
Juli McDonald,
CBS News,
8 Apr. 2026
-
At least one suspect has been killed after three people engaged in an armed clash with police officers in Istanbul that saw gunfire reported ringing out near the Israeli embassy in the Turkish city, officials said.—
Sarah Dean,
NBC news,
7 Apr. 2026
Verb
-
The 6-foot-2 Strong — AP’s Player of the Year — was bothered by South Carolina’s interior size, with several of her inside shots rattling in and out.—
David Brandt,
Chicago Tribune,
4 Apr. 2026
-
Since strikes began in February, Iran has blocked tanker traffic through the strait, sending global energy prices surging and rattling financial markets.—
Adeola Adeosun,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 Mar. 2026
Verb
-
By now your Spidey sense might be tingling.—
Amy Lindgren,
Twin Cities,
4 Apr. 2026
-
If not treated early, the infection can progress to more serious symptoms, such as joint swelling and arthritis, nerve pain, tingling or numbness, facial muscle weakness, heart inflammation and difficulties with memory or concentration.—
Emily Bache,
The Conversation,
31 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Tinkling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tinkling. Accessed 13 Apr. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
