Pronunciation: [bˈɪɡ bˈɛn] (IPA) 
The iconic clock tower in London is known as "Big Ben." But have you ever wondered why it's spelled that way? The word "big" is spelled phonetically with a /b/ sound and a short /ɪ/ vowel followed by a /ɡ/ sound. "Ben," on the other hand, is pronounced with a long /e/ vowel sound followed by a nasal /n/ sound. When put together, the two syllables create the unique and memorable name of one of London's most famous landmarks.
Big Ben is the colloquial name given to the Great Bell of the clock located in the Elizabeth Tower of the Palace of Westminster in London, England. It is one of the most famous landmarks in the world and a symbol of the city of London.
Contrary to popular belief, Big Ben does not refer to the iconic clock tower itself, but rather to the massive bell housed within. The Great Bell weighs approximately 13.5 tons and is one of the heaviest bells in the United Kingdom. It emits a distinctive deep tone that is instantly recognizable.
The name "Big Ben" has become synonymous with the clock tower and is often informally used to refer to the entire structure. The tower itself stands at a height of 96 meters (315 feet) and has four clock faces, each measuring over 7 meters (23 feet) in diameter. These faces are illuminated at night, providing a captivating sight for both locals and tourists.
Completed in 1859, Big Ben has played a significant role in British history, serving as a timekeeper through various important events. It has become an enduring symbol of the city's resilience and an iconic representation of British culture.
Today, the term "Big Ben" is widely recognized across the globe as a reference to both the clock tower and the Great Bell, symbolizing London's rich history and the ingenuity of British engineering.
The word "Big Ben" primarily refers to the nickname of the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster in London. However, the origins of the name "Big Ben" are not entirely clear.
One theory suggests that the nickname "Big Ben" originated from Sir Benjamin Hall, a heavyweight champion and Member of Parliament, who oversaw the installation of the Great Bell in 1858. According to this belief, the bell was named after him due to his prominence and weight. However, this theory is disputed by some historians.
Another hypothesis suggests that the name "Big Ben" derives from the fact that it was the largest of its kind at the time. The bell was cast by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry and was indeed a significant engineering achievement during the 19th century.
