crackle

[krak-uhl]

verb (used without object)

crackled, crackling 

1. to make slight, sudden, sharp noises, rapidly repeated.

2. to form a network of fine cracks on the surface.

3. (of ceramic glaze) to craze.

4. to exhibit liveliness, vibrancy, anticipation, etc..

   The play crackled with wit.

verb (used with object)

crackled, crackling 

1. to cause to crackle.

2. to break with a crackling noise.

3. to craze (ceramic glaze).

noun

1. the act of crackling.

2. a crackling noise.

3. a network of fine cracks, as in the glaze of some kinds of porcelain.

4. crackleware.

crackle

/ ˈkrækəl /

verb

1. to make or cause to make a series of slight sharp noises, as of paper being crushed or of a wood fire burning

2. (tr) to decorate (porcelain or pottery) by causing a fine network of cracks to appear in the glaze

3. (intr) to abound in vivacity or energy

noun

1. the act or sound of crackling

2. intentional crazing in the glaze of a piece of porcelain or pottery

3. Also called: crackleware. porcelain or pottery so decorated

Word History and Origins

Origin of crackle¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; crack + -le

Example Sentences

It nudged me to trust a roast chicken with five more minutes, until the skin blistered into crackle and glass.

From Salon

"Please be advised," he said as the radio crackled back into life, "there is a Santa Claus."

From BBC

Scatter generously over the chorizo for contrast, support and delightful crackle.

From Salon

Cajero was patrolling on a recent night when the radio crackled with a report of a homicide.

From Los Angeles Times

What saved him was music: the sound of the Beatles singing She Loves You out of a crackly transistor radio transformed his life.

From BBC

Related Words

• sparkle