What is bell? Pronunciation and usage in English

bell means . Learn how to pronounce and use bell through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of bell

bellnoun

/bɛl/
Definition & pronunciation of bell

The word "bell" is pronounced like this:

bel

It rhymes with "tell" and "cell."

Here's a breakdown:

  • "bell" - The emphasis is on the first syllable. It's a short, crisp sound.

You can hear it spoken here: https://www.dictionary.com/browse/bell (Look for the audio icon)

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Usage and examples with the word bell in English

Let's break down how to use the word "bell" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with multiple meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. The Physical Object – A Ringing Instrument:

  • Definition: This is the most common meaning. A bell is a hollow metal container that, when struck, produces a ringing sound.
  • Examples:
    • "The church bell rang out for the hour."
    • "He wore a bicycle bell to warn people he was coming."
    • "She purchased a decorative bell for her garden."
    • "The fire bell sounded, alerting the firefighters."

2. Sounds Like a Bell – A Loud, Distinctive Sound:

  • Definition: "Bell" can be used as a verb to describe a sudden, sharp, and noticeable sound, similar to the sound a bell makes.
  • Examples:
    • “The car belled** loudly as it approached the intersection.” (meaning it honked)
    • “The baby belled to get my attention.” (meaning he cried or made a noisy sound)
    • "The alarm belled** and everyone ran for cover."

3. Figurative Meanings – Related to Alertness & Notification:

  • Definition: "Bell" can be used metaphorically to represent a signal, warning, or notification.
  • Examples:
    • "The bell tolled** for the deceased." (signifying mourning; a traditional sound marking death)
    • "A dark bell rang in his mind – he knew something was wrong." (signifying a feeling of dread or impending danger)
    • “The final bell signaled the end of the exam.” (a signal of completion)

4. Specific Types of Bells:

  • Doorbell: “He pressed the doorbell.”
  • School bell: “The school bell rang, ending the period.”
  • Train bell: "The train bell sounded as it approached the station."
  • Ship’s bell: "The ship’s bell had been rung for every passenger who boarded."

5. Idioms and Phrases:

  • To ring a bell: To be familiar or noticeable (e.g., "That name doesn't really ring a bell.") – This means "doesn't sound familiar."
  • To bell up: (Rare) To gather together, often in a disorganized way (usually referring to animals, like cows).

Tips for Using "Bell" Correctly:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the context to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Verb vs. Noun: Remember that “bell” can be a noun (the object) or a verb (the action of ringing).
  • Sound vs. Object: Be careful not to confuse the sound "bell" makes with the physical thing.

Resources for Further Learning:

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Synonyms for the word bell

Idioms of the word bell

alarm bells ring/are ringing
if you say that alarm bells are ringing, you mean that people are starting to feel worried and to suspect that something is wrong
  • The government’s proposal has set alarm bells ringing for people on low incomes.
give somebody a bell
(British English, informal)to call somebody by phone
    pull the other one (—it’s got bells on)
    (British English, informal)used to show that you do not believe what somebody has just said
      ring a bell
      (informal)to sound familiar to you, as though you have heard it before
      • His name rings a bell but I can't think where we met.
      (as) sound as a bell
      (informal)in perfect condition
      • The doctor said I was as sound as a bell.

      Practice with vocabulary bell

      Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

      1. The church _____ rang loudly, signaling the start of the ceremony.
      2. She pressed the door _____ to announce her arrival.
      3. The alarm clock _____ woke me up at 6 a.m.
      4. The sound of the _____ echoed through the quiet village.

      Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

      1. What is a common object that rings to signal an event?
        A) Bell 🔔 B) Whistle C) Horn

      2. Which of the following is NOT a synonym for a notification sound?
        A) Chime B) Drum C) Bell 🔔

      3. What do you call the object at the entrance of a house used to alert the residents?
        A) Doorbell 🔔 B) Gong C) Siren

      4. Which word describes a loud, sharp sound often used in emergencies?
        A) Alarm B) Bell 🔔 C) Knock

      5. What is a traditional instrument made of metal that produces a ringing sound?
        A) Violin B) Bell 🔔 C) Trumpet

      Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

      1. The ringing sound announced the end of the class.
      2. He used the device to signal his presence at the door.
      3. The loud noise from the tower could be heard across the town.

      Answers:

      Exercise 1:

      1. bell
      2. button (noise)
      3. alarm (noise)
      4. bell

      Exercise 2:

      1. A) Bell
      2. B) Drum
      3. A) Doorbell
      4. A) Alarm
      5. B) Bell

      Exercise 3:

      1. The bell announced the end of the class.
      2. He used the doorbell to signal his presence at the door.
      3. The loud chime from the tower could be heard across the town.

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