铿 (kēng) - Clang & clank

铿Tone 1

kēng ｜ 12 strokes ｜ radical:

俊梁

铿 · kēng

Clang;

clank;

a metallic sound;

onomatopoeia for the sound of striking metal or stone.

Clangclanka metallic sound

Usage highlights

Clang and clatterResonant soundClanging noiseMetallic clangSolemn and resonantClang of jade and stone

Synonyms

  • 锵— clang; tinkle (similar metallic sound)
  • 铛— clang; clank (onomatopoeic)

Antonyms

  • 哑— mute; silent (opposite of resonant sound)
  • 寂— quiet; still (opposite of loud sound)

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • The blacksmith's hammer made a clanging sound (铿的一声).
  • The bell rang sonorously (钟声铿然).
  • The sound of jade and stone striking (金石铿鸣).
  • The music was loud and resonant (音乐铿锵).

Collocations

  • Clang and clatter(铿锵)
  • Resonant sound(铿然)
  • Clanging noise(铿响)
  • Metallic clang(金属铿声)
  • Solemn and resonant(铿铿)
  • Clang of jade and stone(金石铿鸣)

Idioms

  • Resonant and forceful(铿锵有力)
  • The sound of jade and stone(金石铿锵)
  • Solemn and dignified(铿金戛玉)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • Originally described the sound of striking metal or stone in ancient texts.
  • Often used in classical Chinese to describe dignified, resonant sounds in music and ceremony.
  • Associated with positive qualities like strength, dignity, and clarity in sound.

FAQ