Bell

Definition

Bell is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a hollow instrument that produces a ringing sound when struck, often used to signal or alert. As a verb, it means to provide or equip with a bell, or to emit a ringing sound like that of a bell.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɛl/
• Respelling: bel

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /bɛl/
• Respelling: bel

The pronunciation of "bell" is identical in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "bell" originates from the Old English "bellan," meaning "to sound or ring." Its origins trace back to Germanic roots, with related words in Old Norse and Old High German, referring to instruments used for making sound.

Derivatives

• Bell-like (adjective)
• Belling (verb)
• Doorbell (noun)
• Belfry (noun)
• Bellsman (noun)

Synonyms

• Chime
• Gong
• Alarm

Antonyms

• Silence
• Mute
• Quiet

Usage

The term "bell" is widely used to describe an instrument that rings, such as "The church bell tolled at noon." It is also used in phrases like "ring a bell," meaning to sound familiar, and in compound words like "doorbell."

Related Terms

• Chime: A sound made by a bell or set of bells.
• Gong: A metallic percussion instrument producing a resonant sound when struck.
• Alarm: A device used to signal an alert, often involving a ringing or loud sound.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A hollow instrument that produces a ringing sound when struck: Often used as a signal or in ceremonies.
  • Example: "The school bell signaled the start of the class."
• A part of various devices that emit a sound when triggered: Refers to mechanisms such as doorbells or alarms.
  • Example: "The door bell rang loudly."

Verb

• To equip or furnish with a bell: Used to describe the act of attaching or installing a bell on something.
  • Example: "They belled the cat to hear when it approached."
• To emit a ringing sound: Describes a noise that resembles the sound of a bell.
  • Example: "The clock belled the hour."