A loud, ringing sound made when metal objects hit each other sharply, like the sound of a sword striking armor.
An imitative word derived from Old Norse and Germanic roots, likely created to mimic the actual sound that metal makes when struck. The word entered English in the 16th century.
Medieval knights dreaded the clank of armor not just because it announced their presence, but because the loud noise would disorient them in battle—silence was actually a tactical advantage, which is why ninjas wore soft clothing!
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