CLOCK

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/klɒk/ or /klɒk/ (Common English Pronunciation)

Definitions

• 1. (noun) A device used for measuring and indicating time, typically consisting of a face, hands, and a mechanism that moves the hands around the face.
• 2. (noun) A timepiece, either mechanical or digital, used to tell the time, often mounted on a wall, placed on a desk, or worn on the wrist.
• 3. (noun) A particular point or moment in time, as in "the clock struck midnight."
• 4. (verb) To measure or keep track of the passage of time (e.g., "She clocked in at 9 AM.")

Usage Examples

• "The clock on the wall ticked steadily throughout the meeting."
• "He looked at his wristwatch, noting the time on the clock."
• "She had been working for hours and could feel the time 'clocking' away."
• "When the clock struck midnight, the party was over."

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "cloche," meaning bell, and later applied to the devices that were used to indicate the time. The bell or "clock" was used in medieval Europe to mark the hours and served as the earliest form of mechanical timekeeping.

Synonyms

• Timepiece
• Watch
• Timer
• Chronometer

Antonyms

• Indefiniteness
• Timelessness

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In British English, "clock" is pronounced with a hard "c" as in /klɒk/.
• In American English, the pronunciation remains largely the same, though accents may affect the length of vowels slightly.
• In some parts of Ireland, "clock" might be pronounced with a slightly more rounded vowel sound.

Historical Usage

The earliest clocks were simple devices designed to mark the passage of time, using mechanisms like water clocks or sundials. The mechanical clock emerged in the 13th century, revolutionizing timekeeping. Clocks initially appeared in church towers and town halls, where bells were rung to signal important events. Over time, the use of clocks spread to personal timepieces, such as watches, and was instrumental in the rise of precision in daily life.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, clocks hold symbolic meaning, representing the passage of time, the inevitability of death, or even the importance of punctuality. In some Eastern philosophies, the concept of "clock time" is seen as less important compared to the natural rhythm of life, while in Western cultures, the clock symbolizes efficiency and control. Clocks also play a central role in various ceremonies, such as New Year's Eve, when the chimes of Big Ben or the countdown are an iconic feature of celebrations.

More Information

Today, clocks are ubiquitous, found in virtually every home, office, and electronic device. From traditional mechanical wall clocks to advanced atomic clocks that measure time with incredible precision, clocks remain crucial in our understanding of the world. The evolution of clocks from simple sundials to digital smartwatches reflects the human desire to master and measure time.