bells

word · lemma: bell

/ˈbɛɫz/
belz
/bˈɛlz/
belz

Definition

Bells are metal objects that make a clear ringing sound when they are hit or shaken. They are used in places like churches, schools, doors, phones, and alarms.

Usage & Nuances

Usually a countable noun: 'a bell', 'church bells'. 'Bell' often suggests a larger ringing object, while 'ring' or 'alarm' may fit better for phones and clocks in everyday speech. Common collocations include 'doorbell', 'wedding bells', and 'the bells are ringing'.

Example Sentences

I can hear the bells from the church.

basic

The bells ring at noon every day.

basic

Small bells hang on the door.

basic

Those holiday bells in the song always make me smile.

natural

The wedding bells finally rang after ten years together.

natural

I woke up to the bells ringing across the town.

natural