Basic Details
Word: Knell
Part of Speech: Noun / Verb
Meaning: A sound made by a bell, especially to announce a death or a sad occasion; to ring a bell in a slow, sad way.
Synonyms: Toll, ring
Antonyms: Cheer, celebration
Idioms and Phrases
- Knell of doom: A signal that something bad is going to happen. Example: "The news of the job cuts sounded like the knell of doom for many employees."
- Last knell: Refers to the final warning or sign that something bad is coming. Example: "The last knell of the bell echoed through the alley as the storm approached."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The church bell began to knell, marking the end of the service and reminding everyone of the day's solemnity.
Example 2: As the knell echoed through the air, the community gathered to remember those they had lost.
Example 3: The haunting knell of the bell signified not just a death, but a moment to reflect on the memories shared.
Fun Fact
The word "knell" has roots in Old English, originating from "cnyll," meaning to announce or to sound a bell, especially in contexts of mourning or significant events.
Famous Quote
"For every soul is a bell that knells, and each toll is a parting from the world." - Anonymous
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "knell" mean?
a) A joyful sound
b) A sound made by a bell
c) A trumpet noise
d) A whisper
Answer: b) A sound made by a bell
2. Which of these is a synonym of "knell"?
a) Cheer
b) Toll
c) Hoot
d) Bark
Answer: b) Toll
3. Which word is an antonym of "knell"?
a) Grieve
b) Celebration
c) Mourning
d) Funeral
Answer: b) Celebration
4. Which sentence uses "knell" correctly?
a) The knell of the bell could be heard from miles away, reminding people of the funeral.
b) She began to knell with excitement when she received the news.
c) The children knelled loudly, playing in the park.
d) He decided to knell over his homework.
Answer: a) The knell of the bell could be heard from miles away, reminding people of the funeral.
5. What does the idiom "knell of doom" signify?
a) A celebration is about to start
b) A signal that something bad is going to happen
c) Indication of a new beginning
d) A time for joy
Answer: b) A signal that something bad is going to happen
