Clunking is a sound that often indicates something is broken or not functioning properly. Synonyms for clunking may be used to describe a similar sound in different contexts. For example, thumping may be used when describing someone pounding their fist on a table. Banging may be used to describe a car engine that is missing or a door that is slamming shut. Clanging may be used to describe metals striking against each other. Clinking may be used to describe glassware being set down on a countertop. Ultimately, synonyms for clunking may be dependent on the context in which the sound is being heard.