passing bell

American  

noun

1. a bell tolled to announce a death or funeral.

2. a portent or sign of the passing away of anything.

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passing bell British  

noun

1. Also called: death bell.   death knell.  a bell rung to announce a death or a funeral

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Etymology

Origin of passing bell

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

passing bell

In Bishop Blougram's Apology, Browning's bishop says of the "-ologies" that they are "the Greek endings, the little passing bell that signifies some faith's about to die."

From Time Magazine Archive

Somewhere near, a passing bell was tolling; the dogs all round the neighbourhood were howling; and in our shrubbery, seemingly just outside, a nightingale was singing.

From "Dracula" by Bram Stoker

"Oh, Suzanne," he continued, as mournful as a passing bell, "come to the door with me."

From The "Genius" by Dreiser, Theodore

In the superstitions which gathered round the bells of Christianity, the passing bell was considered to ward off the influence of evil spirits from the departing soul.

From Old Church Lore by Andrews, William

It is said that if in a theater the tinkle of a passing bell is heard, actors and audience fall on their knees.

From Heroic Spain by O'Reilly, Elizabeth Boyle