bell

Bell is a noun for a hollow, cup-shaped or conical metal object that emits sound when struck. Bells are used as signaling devices, musical instruments, and timekeeping elements in churches, schools, and public clocks. The term also extends to devices that imitate bells or produce bell-like sounds, and to the name "Bell" in culture and geography.

Most traditional bells are cast from bronze and hung in frames or towers, struck by a clapper or by external mechanisms. Smaller variants include handbells, table bells, and doorbells; electric bells use coils or electronic chimes.

Several bells have become internationally known symbols. The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is celebrated for its crack and role in United States history. The Great Bell of the clock at the Palace of Westminster, commonly called Big Ben, is a prominent landmark in London.

Bell is a common surname and place name. Notable people with the surname include Alexander Graham Bell, who co-invented the telephone. Numerous towns, counties, and geographic features are named Bell.

In modern business, Bell refers to telecommunications entities built on the historical Bell System, including Bell Labs and Bell Canada; the Bell brand is used by various companies worldwide.