clink

clink · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A sharp ringing sound, as of glasses or metal objects touching.

  2. 2.

    To make or cause to make a sharp ringing sound.

  3. 3.

    (slang) Prison; jail.

Forms

plural: clinks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    clink glasses — to tap glasses together in a toast
  • •
    in the clink — in prison (slang)

Related words

See also: chink, clinking, ring, tinkle
Synonyms: chink, jingle, ring, tinkle

Etymology

Of imitative origin, from Middle English "clinken" (to ring, clink). The word imitates the sharp, metallic sound it describes. The prison slang sense comes from Clink Prison, a famous jail in Southwark, London.