English · Word Candidate

clash

/ˈklæʃ/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: clashes · clashing · clashed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A loud sound, like the crashing together of metal objects; a crash.

Noun

Examples

I heard a clash from the kitchen, and rushed in to find the cat had knocked over some pots and pans.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A skirmish, a hostile encounter.

Noun

Examples

In Anatolia tensions between state officials (ehl-i örf) and the peasants were strained to breaking point. At several places—particularly in the frontier provinces—there were fierce clashes between the janissaries stationed there and the governors. In Aleppo and Damascus incidents were common after

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To make a clashing sound.

Verb

Examples

The cymbals clashed.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To cause to make a clashing sound.

Verb

Examples

Thorfinn clashed his shield against Vallon's and swung his axe to hook Vallon's ankle.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “clash” mean?

A loud sound, like the crashing together of metal objects; a crash.

Is “clash” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.