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Knell Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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knell

[nɛl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

funeral ceremony

The sound of a bell, especially when rung solemnly for a death or funeral.

Synonyms

death knell, funeral bell, toll.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
knell

This word is often used in literary or poetic contexts to describe a sound that signals death or the end of something. It carries a somber and serious tone.

  • The knell of the old clock tower echoed through the silent village.
  • His resignation sounded the knell for the long-standing political agenda.
toll

This word can be used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to denote the ringing of a bell, often at regular intervals, marking a significant event, especially death or mourning.

  • The church bell began to toll at midnight.
  • Every toll of the bell brought a sense of eerie finality.
death knell

This phrase is typically used metaphorically to indicate an event that signifies the end or failure of something important or significant. It has a strong negative connotation.

  • The closing of the factory was the death knell for the small town's economy.
  • The scandal sounded the death knell for his political career.
funeral bell

This term is mostly used in literal settings to describe the bell that rings during a funeral service. It emphasizes the mourning and grieving process.

  • The solemn toll of the funeral bell could be heard as we arrived at the church.
  • They stood silently, heads bowed, as the funeral bell rang.

Examples of usage

  • The knell of the church bell echoed through the village as the funeral procession passed by.
  • The mournful knell of the bell signaled the end of an era for the small town.
Context #2 | Verb

signal the end of something

To ring a bell slowly and solemnly, especially to indicate a death or the end of something.

Synonyms

chime, ring solemnly, toll.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
knell

Used to express the sound of a bell, especially a church bell, when rung solemnly to announce a death or a funeral. It can also figuratively indicate the end or destruction of something.

  • The knell of the cathedral bell filled the air, marking the end of an era.
  • The company's bankruptcy filing sounded the knell for the failing industry.
toll

Used to describe the slow and regular ringing of a large bell, particularly to mark the passing of time or in a ceremonial context, such as during funerals or significant gatherings.

  • The bell tolled mournfully for the departed souls.
  • As the sun set, the bell began to toll, signifying the end of the day.
chime

Used to describe the harmonious sound made by bells, often associated with clocks or celebrations. It can also refer to a melodious and pleasant ringing sound.

  • The chimes of the clock could be heard throughout the town at noon.
  • We listened to the church bells chime during the wedding ceremony.
ring solemnly

Used to describe the act of ringing a bell in a serious or formal manner, often in contexts such as funerals, memorial services, or other solemn events.

  • The bell rang solemnly as the procession made its way through the streets.
  • The church bell rang solemnly in remembrance of those who lost their lives.

Examples of usage

  • The final chime knelled the end of the day's proceedings.
  • The church bells knelled the passing of a great leader.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the sound of a bell tolling signifies mourning and is often used during funerals.
  • Literature frequently uses the motif of a knell to symbolize the end of life, as seen in works like Shakespeare's plays.
  • Often linked with the phrase 'a knell of doom,' it represents a foreboding tone in storytelling.

Music and Art

  • Many classical composers have included bell sounds in their works to evoke emotion or signal change.
  • The act of ringing bells can be seen as a form of musical expression, representing community mourning.
  • Art pieces sometimes depict funerals where the bell towers are central, emphasizing the significance of the knell.

Psychology

  • The sound of a knell can trigger deep emotional responses, often associated with loss and reflection.
  • Studies show that sounds associated with grief can affect our mood and mental state, reinforcing the somber experience.
  • Familiar sounds, like a knell, may evoke personal memories, heightening emotional reactions in listeners.

Modern Usage

  • In contemporary language, 'knell' can also symbolize the end of something, like a 'knell for a lost tradition.'
  • It appears in phrases like 'the knell of democracy,' indicating a warning about political change.
  • Musicians and poets today still draw upon the imagery of knells to convey feelings of sorrow and reverence.

Origin of 'knell'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'cneolian,' which means to announce or summon.
  • Originally, it referred specifically to the sound of a bell tolling for death.
  • The usage has evolved, but it still carries the heaviness of sadness in its context.

The word 'knell' originates from the Old English word 'cnyll' or 'cnell,' which meant the sound of a bell when rung slowly and solemnly. The use of bells to mark death or funerals has been a long-standing tradition in many cultures, symbolizing the passing of a soul from this world to the next. The haunting sound of a knell has a deep emotional impact, evoking feelings of loss, mourning, and finality.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,872, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.