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Belfry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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belfry

[หˆbษ›lfri ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

bell tower

A belfry is a bell tower, usually attached to a church or other building, where bells are housed.

Synonyms

bell tower, bellfry, campanile.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
belfry

Typically refers to the part of a church or other building where bells are housed. Often used in historical or architectural contexts.

  • The belfry was added to the church in the 15th century.
  • You could hear the bells ringing from the old belfry across town.
bell tower

A general term that refers to any tower that houses bells, not necessarily attached to a church. Commonly used when describing structures without specific architectural significance.

  • The school has a prominent bell tower that rings every hour.
  • They climbed the bell tower to get a better view of the city.
bellfry

A less common, archaic or erroneous spelling of 'belfry.' Rarely used in modern texts.

  • The medieval castle had a large bellfry, where the warning bell was kept.
campanile

Refers specifically to a freestanding bell tower, often associated with Italian architecture. Used in architectural or historical discussions.

  • The famous campanile in Venice is a popular tourist attraction.
  • They admired the intricacies of the campanile's design.

Examples of usage

  • The church's belfry chimed every hour.
  • The bats nested in the old belfry.
Context #2 | Noun

part of a helmet

In medieval times, a belfry referred to the part of a helmet that protected the head.

Synonyms

head protection, helmet part.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
belfry

This word is typically used to refer to the part of a bell tower or steeple in which bells are housed. It can be associated with old churches or historic buildings.

  • The ancient church's belfry was visible from miles away.
  • The belfry housed an old bell that rang every hour.
head protection

This is a general term that refers to any form of protecting the head, including helmets, hats, or other protective gear. It is often used in safety instructions, guidelines, and policies.

  • The lab requires visitors to wear head protection at all times.
  • Ensuring proper head protection is essential in hazardous work environments.

Examples of usage

  • The knight's belfry was decorated with intricate engravings.
  • The belfry of the helmet saved the soldier from a fatal blow.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Belfries can be elaborate, featuring gothic or baroque designs, showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
  • Some famous belfries, like the one in Bruges, Belgium, have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
  • Typically, a belfry is equipped with a system allowing bells to be rung, whether manually or mechanically.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the ringing of bells from a belfry marks important events, such as weddings or funerals.
  • Belfries are often symbols of community and gathering, as their bells call people to worship or meeting.
  • Famous belfries, like the Big Ben in London, have become iconic landmarks globally, recognized for their historic value.

Literature

  • Belfries appear in notable literary works, symbolizing time passing or moments of awakening.
  • In Edgar Allan Poe's 'The Bells', the sound of bells creates an emotional landscape, connecting to life's stages.
  • Belfries can also represent nostalgia and memory, often evoking a sense of home in poetry and storytelling.

Music

  • The sound of bells from a belfry influenced composers in creating pieces that incorporate bell-like tones.
  • Many churches with belfries often hold concerts featuring the rich sounds of their bells, known as carillon music.
  • Thereโ€™s a unique art to ringing bells, creating melodies that can be both celebratory and melancholic.

Origin of 'belfry'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'belfry' comes from the Old French term 'berfrei', which meant a bell tower.
  • Its roots can be traced back to the Latin word 'campanile', relating to bells and bell towers.
  • In medieval times, belfries were not just for bells; they often served higher watchpoints for spotting danger.

The word 'belfry' originated from the Old French word 'berfrei', which meant 'siege tower'. It was later used to refer to a bell tower in the 14th century. The association with bells likely came about due to the use of bells in towers for various purposes, such as signaling the time or calling people to prayer.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,249, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.