Here's the breakdown:
* Old English: The earliest form of the word is "gangan," which meant "to go, to walk."
* Middle English: The word evolved into "janglen," meaning "to make a jingling sound." This was likely influenced by the Old Norse word "jangla," which also meant to "ring" or "clang."
* Modern English: "Jangle" became the standard form, and its meaning broadened to encompass a wider range of clanging and rattling sounds.
The evolution of the word is likely tied to its association with the sounds of:
* Metal objects: Think of chains, bells, or metal jewelry clinking together.
* Musical instruments: The "jangly" sound of instruments like the banjo or sitar.
So, the next time you hear something jangle, remember that the word itself has been around for centuries, reflecting the unique and often delightful sound of metal objects and musical instruments.