[f. CLINK v.1 + -ING1.] The action of the verb CLINK; the making of a sharp metallic sound.

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c. 1386.  Chaucer, Nun’s Pr. Prol., 28. Ffor sikerly nere clynkyng of youre belles That on youre bridel hange on euery syde … I sholde er this han fallen doun for sleepe.

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1515.  Barclay, Egloges, ii. (1570), B iv/3. The wretched lazar with clinking of his bell.

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1596.  Shaks., 1 Hen. IV., II. iv. 50. A long Lease for the clinking of Pewter.

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1844.  Alb. Smith, Adv. Mr. Ledbury, ii. The clinking of the cups and saucers.

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