chime - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
chime Word Meanings
- The ringing sound of bells or bells ringing.
- A bell or group of bells that produce a musical ringing sound.
- To chime in: to join in with a remark; to agree or align with something.
chime Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
chime Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/tʃaɪm/
US
/tʃaɪm/
chime Word Etymology
Root decomposition: root = chime; no prefix or suffix. Historical origin: from Old English and Old French for the bell sound, likely via a Germanic root. Memory image: picture a town square where bells chime in time with the clock, the harmony etching itself in memory.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Chime is an English word describing the pleasant ringing of bells, often heard from clock towers, churches, or carillons, and it can refer to the bells themselves or the sound they make. As a noun, it denotes that musical ringing or a single bell’s tone, and metaphorically can describe a moment that fits neatly with something. As a verb, to chime in means to join a discussion with a comment, to offer agreement, or to add a point. The idea emphasizes harmony and timing, so learners sometimes mix chime with ring or toll, or apply it to non-bell sounds or wrong contextual collocations.
Usage Reminders
- Chime can be a noun or a verb. Use chime in to mean join a discussion. Don’t use chime for non-bell sounds. Compare with ring and toll to choose the right meaning. Pair with time expressions: the bells chime at noon. Remember the harmony/metaphor sense in calm contexts.
Common Misconceptions
- Chime only refers to bell sounds and not to people or discussions.
- To chime in just means agreeing; it never implies interrupting.
- Chime is interchangeable with ring or toll in all contexts.
- Chime cannot describe any non-bell sound.
- Chime is always a noun; it cannot be used as a verb.
Thinking Differences
English treats chime as both a bell sound and a social action (joining a discussion). Learners from other languages may overclose the gap by translating chime as a general 'sound' or by treating chime in as merely agreeing, leading to awkward phrasing.
Learning Tips
- Listen for the bell sound in real-life audio and note when a person says to chime in.
- Create two short examples: one with chime as a noun, one as a verb.
- Compare chime with ring and toll in context (sound vs action).
- Practice sentences about clocks or carillons to solidify sound sense.
- Memorize a mental image of bells chiming in rhythm with a clock.
- Use chime with time words like at noon, at the hour.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'chime'?
A.To jump quickly
B.To write a message
C.A sound made by bells
D.To describe a color
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'chime' correctly?
A.The flowers chime beautifully in the garden.
B.The clock will chime at midnight.
C.She decided to chime her hair blue.
D.They chime about their experiences in the room.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'chime'?
A.Ring
B.Jump
C.Describe
D.Light
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'chime'?
A.Shout
B.Sound
C.Silence
D.Echo
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context involving 'chime'?
A.The children rang the bell during class.
B.During the ceremony, the bells rang out to announce the time.
C.An orchestra played a beautiful melody at noon.
D.She admired the colors of the sunset.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App