bell
1 of 2nouna metal cup-shaped object with a separate piece of metal hanging inside that makes a ringing noise when it moves
B2Learn more on WikipediaA bell is a metal percussion instrument with a hollow, cup-shaped body that produces sound when struck. It typically has a clapper inside, which hits the sides of the bell when it is moved or shaken. Bells come in various sizes and shapes and are used in many different contexts, including church services, ceremonial events, and musical compositions. The sound of a bell is often described as clear and resonant, and its tone can vary depending on the size, shape, and material of the bell.
- The church bell rang out across the village, signaling the start of the wedding ceremony.
- The bell on the restaurant's counter jingled when customers entered or exited the establishment.
- During the event, a large bell was rung to mark the beginning of each new activity.
- During the festival, a large brass bell was used to attract people’s attention to the opening ceremony.
- She adjusted the tiny bell on her cat’s collar to make sure she could hear when the cat was nearby.
a push button at an entrance that triggers a ringing or buzzing signal
- Visitors pressed the bell to announce their arrival.
- The old-fashioned bell squeaked when used.
- She forgot to ring the bell before entering.
- A quick press of the bell summoned assistance.
- The bell alerted the staff to a delivery.
the ringing sound produced by a bell
- The bell echoed through the hall.
- Morning began with the bell of the cathedral.
- The bell's clear tone carried across the field.
- The bell reverberated in the empty church.
- A distant bell signaled the start of the ceremony.
the flared end of a tubular object
- The trumpet has a wide bell at its opening.
- Steam escaped from the bell of the pipe.
- The horn's bell amplified the sound.
- Airflow through the bell affects the tone.
- He polished the bell of the trombone.
a percussion instrument consisting of multiple tuned bells struck with a hammer, used in orchestras
- Bells are often used to highlight melody lines.
- She played the bell part in the Christmas carol.
- The composer wrote a passage for the bells.
- Students practiced ringing the bell set in harmony.
- The bell section added a bright timbre to the piece.
a shape resembling a bell
- The chimney top formed a bell.
- The jellyfish's bell pulsated in the water.
- She admired the bell curve of the hills.
- The vase was molded in a bell shape.
- The skirt had a flowing bell silhouette.
(nautical) one of eight half-hour divisions of shipboard time, indicated by strikes of a bell. eight bells mark 4:00, 8:00, or 12:00, a.m. or p.m.
- The ship struck four bells for 8:00 a.m.
- Sailors marked the watch change with bells.
- Eight bells signaled the end of the watch.
- The bell routine kept the crew on schedule.
- Officers listened for the ship's bell carefully.