1. Sound:
* A sharp, ringing sound: This is the most common meaning of "twang." It can refer to the sound made by a stretched string, like a guitar string or a bowstring. It can also refer to the sound made by hitting something elastic, like a rubber band.
* A nasal tone of voice: This refers to a way of speaking with a high, sharp sound, often associated with certain regional dialects.
2. Feeling:
* A sudden, sharp pain: This is used metaphorically to describe a sudden, intense feeling, often a negative one. For example, "A twang of sadness ran through her."
3. Style:
* A distinctive, often country-influenced musical style: This refers to the specific sound of certain types of music, characterized by the use of steel guitars and a strong emphasis on rhythm.
Examples:
* Sound: "The banjo twanged merrily."
* Nasal tone: "He spoke with a twang in his voice."
* Feeling: "A twang of anxiety made her stomach clench."
* Style: "He played a song with a twangy guitar riff."
The specific meaning of "twang" will be clear from the context in which it is used.