clock

clock · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A device for measuring and displaying time.

  2. 2.

    To measure the time or speed of something.

  3. 3.

    A measuring device resembling a clock.

  4. 4.

    (informal) To hit or strike.

  5. 5.

    (informal) A speedometer.

  6. 6.

    (informal) To notice or observe.

Forms

plural: clocks

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    around the clock — continuously, 24 hours a day
  • •
    beat the clock — finish before a deadline
  • •
    clock in/out — register arrival/departure at work
  • •
    against the clock — racing to meet a deadline
  • •
    turn back the clock — return to an earlier time

Related words

See also: clocks, clockwork, time, watch
Synonyms: chronometer, timekeeper, timepiece

Etymology

From Medieval Latin "clocca" (bell), because early mechanical clocks struck bells to mark the hours. Related to Germanic words like Dutch "klok" and German "Glocke" (bell). The connection to bells explains the similarity to "cloak" (from the bell-shaped garment).