Definitions

1. verb

to make a bright, ringing sound, typically with a metallic or glassy quality

“The wind chinkled through the broken windowpane.”

2. noun

a bright, ringing sound, especially one made by a small object, such as a key or a piece of ice

“The chinkle of the key in the lock was a familiar sound.”

3. interjection

an expression of surprise or interest, often used to draw attention to something

“Chinkle! What’s that noise?”