First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1knell
verb \ˈnel\
Definition of KNELL
transitive verb
: to summon or announce by or as if by a knell
intransitive verb
1
: to ring especially for a death, funeral, or disaster : toll
2
: to sound in an ominous manner or with an ominous effect
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Origin of KNELL
Middle English, from Old English cnyllan; akin to Middle High German erknellen to toll
2knell
noun
: a sound of a bell when it is rung slowly because someone has died
Full Definition of KNELL
1
: a stroke or sound of a bell especially when rung slowly (as for a death, funeral, or disaster)
2
: an indication of the end or the failure of something <sounded the death knell for our hopes>
See knell defined for English-language learners
First Known Use of KNELL
before 12th century
KNELL Defined for Kids
knell
noun \ˈnel\
Definition of KNELL for Kids
1
: a stroke or sound of a bell especially when rung slowly for a death, funeral, or disaster
2
: an indication of the end or failure of something <“… it sounds the death knell of our society.” — Lucy Maud Montgomery, Anne of Avonlea>
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