Toll

Definition

Toll generally refers to a fee or charge for services or use, especially roads or bridges. It can also denote the cost or damage sustained in a particular situation, or the sound of a bell, particularly when rung slowly.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /toʊl/
• Respelling: TOHL (with "TOHL" rhyming with "bowl" and "soul")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /təʊl/
• Respelling: TOHL (similar to American English, with "TOHL" rhyming with "bowl" and "soul")

In both dialects, "toll" is pronounced with a long "o" sound, as in "bowl" or "soul." The pronunciation of "toll" is consistent between American and British English, showcasing the straightforward nature of its phonetic realization.

Etymology

The word "toll" is derived from the Old English word "toll" or "tol", akin to the Old High German "zol", which denotes a fee or tax. In the context of a bell, it comes from the Old English word "tollan", which means "to ring".

Derivatives

• Tollgate
• Toller (one who collects tolls)
• Tollhouse
• Toll-free
• Tollway

Synonyms

• Fee
• Charge
• Tariff

Antonyms

• Free
• Exemption
• Waiver

Usage

• "Toll" is frequently used in the context of transportation, referring to fees collected for using certain infrastructures like roads, bridges, or tunnels.
• It can also be used metaphorically to describe the adverse effects or damage caused by an event or situation.
• In literature or poetic contexts, the tolling of a bell can signify the passage of time or an impending event.

Related Terms

• Levy
• Tax
• Duty
• Fare
• Cost

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Fee for Services: A charge payable to use a bridge, road, or facility.
• Example: Drivers are required to pay a toll to use the tunnel.

• Cost or Damage: The extent of loss, damage, suffering, or adverse effects caused by an event or action.
• Example: The toll of the war on civilians was immense.

• Sound of a Bell: The sound produced by a bell when struck, especially when rung slowly and solemnly.
• Example: The mournful toll of the funeral bell resonated through the town.

Verb

• Charge a Fee: To charge a fee for the use of a service or facility.
• Example: The authority tolls the bridge to fund its maintenance.

• Sound a Bell: To cause a bell to sound with slow, single strokes.
• Example: The church bells tolled to mark the passing of the revered leader.