Chimes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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chimes
[tʃaɪmz ]
Definitions
musical instrument
Chimes are musical instruments consisting of a set of tuned metal tubes or rods that are struck with a hammer to produce a pleasant sound.
Synonyms
bells, carillons, glockenspiels.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chimes |
Refer to a set of small bells or metal tubes that produce sounds when struck, often used in clocks, doorbells, or for decorative purposes.
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| bells |
General term for a hollow metal object that makes a ringing sound when struck, often associated with churches, schools, or time-keeping devices.
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| carillons |
Describe a musical instrument consisting of multiple bells, usually housed in a tower, that are played using a keyboard or an automated mechanism.
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| glockenspiels |
Indicate a percussion instrument with metal bars that are struck with mallets, commonly found in orchestras and often used in education.
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Examples of usage
- The chimes in the garden create a peaceful atmosphere.
- The wind chimes on the porch tinkle softly in the breeze.
sound
Chimes can also refer to the action of making a ringing or tinkling sound, typically in a repetitive pattern.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| chimes |
Used to describe the sound made by a set of bells, often in a church tower or a clock. It can also refer to the sound of wind chimes.
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| ring |
Refers to the sound made by bells, such as doorbells, telephones, or larger bells in towns. It can also mean the repetition of a sound in one's ears.
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| tinkle |
Describes a light, delicate, and somewhat continuous ringing sound, usually associated with small bells or the sound of water trickling.
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| jingle |
Usually used to describe a light, high-pitched ringing sound, often associated with small bells or metal objects. Can also refer to catchy musical tunes in advertisements.
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Examples of usage
- The clock chimes every hour.
- The door chimes when someone enters the store.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, the sound of chimes is associated with tranquility and spirituality, often used in meditation or relaxation techniques.
- Some Asian cultures use wind chimes as symbols of good luck, believing that the sound can ward off evil spirits.
Science
- Chimes operate on principles of acoustics; the sound produced is influenced by the material, size, and shape of the chime.
- When a chime is struck, it vibrates, creating sound waves that travel through the air and can be heard nearby.
History
- Chimes or bells have been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years, often marking important times during services.
- In medieval Europe, church bells would signal community events, emergencies, and the passage of time.
Art and Music
- Chimes are commonly featured in music, particularly in orchestras where they add a unique tone and texture.
- Wind chimes, often made of bamboo or metal, are popular decorative items that create soothing ambient sounds in gardens.
Origin of 'chimes'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'chime' comes from the Old French word 'chimbe', meaning 'bell'.
- It evolved in Middle English to describe the sound of bells and has been used since the 14th century.
The word 'chimes' has its origin in Middle English, derived from the Old English word 'cim', which means 'sound, resonance'. Chimes have been used for centuries in various cultures around the world for their musical and decorative qualities.