church bell

noun

1
: a large metal bell
especially : one cast in traditional shape and producing a true bell tone
2
: an instrument (as an organ stop) imitating the sound of church bells
usually used in plural
compare cathedral chimes

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of church bell was before the 12th century

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near church bell

Cite this Entry

“Church bell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/church%20bell. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!