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Chiming Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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chiming

[หˆtสƒaษชmษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

sound

To make a ringing sound, like a bell or clock.

Synonyms

peal, ring, toll.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chiming

Same as previous; Used in contexts where there is a continuous or repetitive sound from bells, often evoking a serene or nostalgic feeling.

  • They could hear the old church bell chiming in the distance.
  • The phones on the table started chiming at the same time.
ring

General term for the clear, resonant sound that a bell makes. It can be used in many contexts, including telephones, alarms, or any tool that produces such a sound.

  • I heard the doorbell ring.
  • The phone started to ring during the meeting.
toll

Typically used for the slow, solemn ringing of a bell, often to mark a death or funeral. It has a negative, mournful connotation.

  • The bell tolled to mark the passing of the village elder.
  • A distant bell tolled the end of the day.
peal

Refers to the loud, resonant sounds of bells, often used to describe the ringing of church bells or similar situations. It can also imply a series of sounds.

  • A peal of bells rang out to celebrate the wedding.
  • She heard a peal of laughter from the next room.

Examples of usage

  • The clock was chiming midnight.
  • The bells chimed in the distance.
Context #2 | Noun

music

A musical sound produced by striking a bell or set of bells.

Synonyms

bell sound, pealing, tolling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
chiming

Use 'chiming' to describe a pleasant, musical sound usually associated with small bells, clocks, or chimes. It often suggests a soft, harmonious sound.

  • The wind chimes were gently chiming in the breeze.
  • The clock started chiming at the hour.
bell sound

'Bell sound' is a general term to describe any sound made by a bell. It can be used in various situations without implying a specific tone or purpose.

  • I could hear the bell sound from the schoolyard.
  • The bell sound signaled the end of the class.
tolling

'Tolling' is used to describe the slow, solemn ringing of a bell, often associated with funerals, mourning, or significant, usually grave events.

  • The bell was tolling for the funeral service.
  • A lone bell was tolling in the distance, marking the passing of time.
pealing

'Pealing' is typically used to describe a series of loud, echoing sounds from large bells, often in a celebratory or ceremonial context, like church bells.

  • The church bells were pealing to celebrate the wedding.
  • Pealing bells echoed through the valley announcing the festival.

Examples of usage

  • The chimes of the church bells filled the air.
  • We could hear the chimes of the ice cream truck.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Music

  • Chiming can refer to the harmonious sound made by bells, but itโ€™s also a style of playing certain musical instruments, creating melodic patterns.
  • In music, 'chime' can describe specific techniques used in guitar playing, where strings resonate to create a bell-like effect.
  • Some famous compositions feature chimes as a central element, adding a sparkling quality to orchestral music.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures use chimes in their celebrations, such as New Year's Eve, to mark the passage of time and bring in the new year with joy.
  • In Feng Shui, wind chimes are believed to attract positive energy, symbolizing the uplifting flow of air and sound.
  • Chiming sounds are often associated with tranquility and peace, making them popular in relaxation and meditation practices.

Technology

  • In modern technology, 'chiming' can refer to alerts or notifications that sound like bells, signaling attention needed on devices.
  • Smart doorbells often have various chime sounds, allowing homeowners to customize the welcoming sound when someone rings the bell.
  • Chiming apps can simulate bell sounds, creating ambient noise that people enjoy for relaxation or focus.

Psychology

  • The sound of chiming often evokes feelings of nostalgia and calmness, as many people associate it with peaceful moments, like church services or family gatherings.
  • Research suggests that bell chimes can affect mood positively, often used in therapeutic settings to create a serene environment.
  • Chiming sounds can enhance memory recall and focus, which is why theyโ€™re sometimes included in study playlists.

Origin of 'chiming'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'chime' comes from the Old French word 'chimer', meaning 'to sound', reflecting its connection to making noise.
  • Historically, the term was associated with church bells, signaling the hours and important events in communities.
  • In medieval times, chimes were also used in clock mechanisms, becoming essential in public timekeeping.

The word 'chiming' originates from the Middle English word 'chimen', which is derived from the Old English word 'cimban', meaning 'to sound with bells'. The use of bells for telling time or marking significant events dates back to ancient civilizations. Bells were used in churches, temples, and town squares to signal the time of day, call people to worship, or warn of danger. The tradition of chiming bells continues to be an important cultural practice in many societies.

See also: chime, chimes.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,316 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.