crackle

Definition

A prolonged, frequent cracking sound; a fizzing, popping sound.

Etymology

From Middle English crakelen, equivalent to crack + -le (frequentative suffix). The physics sense is part of a facetious sequence "snap, crackle, pop", after the mascots of Rice Krispies cereal.

Example Sentences

• "I heard a crackle from the frying pan as I was frying bacon."
• "There was an annoying crackle during the phone call, due to poor connection."
• "Then a superincumbent bundle rolled down, with a whisking noise, flames elongated, and bent themselves about with a quiet roar, but no crackle."

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