What Does “Knell” Mean

“Knell” means a slow, deep ringing sound, usually from a bell. It is often used to signal death, sadness, or the end of something important.

In everyday English, people use “knell” mostly in a serious or formal way. You might hear it in phrases like “the death knell of something,” which means the sign that something is ending or failing.

Meaning & Usage

“Knell” can describe the sound of a bell, especially one rung at a funeral or for a sad event. It can also be used more broadly to mean a warning that something is coming to an end.

Examples

The church bell gave a slow knell.

Many people saw the new rule as the death knell of the old system.

Is “knell” used in everyday speech?

Not very often. It is more common in writing, news, or formal speech than in casual conversation.

What does “death knell” mean?

It means a sign that something is likely to end, fail, or disappear.

Is “knell” a noun or a verb?

It is mainly a noun, but it can also be used as a verb meaning to ring a bell slowly and sadly.