chime

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C1 — Advanced

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a percussion instrument consisting of a set of tuned bells that are struck with a hammer; used as an orchestral instrument
  2. verb emit a sound

Etymology

From Middle English chymbe, chyme, probably from Old Northern French chimbe (“cymbal”), a back-formation from chimble, cimble, from Latin cymbalum; perhaps reinforced by a misinterpretation of a Middle English *chymbele (from Old English ċimbala, ċimbal (“cymbal”)) as chymbe belle.

In classic literature

Synonyms

bell, gong

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