CLOCK Meaning and
Definition
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A clock refers to a mechanical or electronic device that is typically used for measuring and indicating the time. It is designed to display hours, minutes, and sometimes seconds in a visually comprehensible manner. Clocks come in various forms, including wall clocks, desk clocks, alarm clocks, and wristwatches.
The fundamental mechanism of a clock generally involves a repetitive process that counts and measures the passage of time. This process is accomplished through the use of various components such as gears, pendulums, springs, and electronic circuits, depending on the type of clock.
Typically, a clock consists of a dial or digital display with numbers or markings indicating the hour and minute intervals. Meanwhile, the hour and minute hands, or digital numbers, rotate or change to represent the current time or the duration passed.
Clocks have been an integral aspect of human life for centuries, enabling individuals to schedule tasks, keep track of daily routines, and ensure punctuality. They serve as a reliable means to synchronize activities and establish a sense of order within society.
In addition to their practical function, clocks are often appreciated for their aesthetic appeal, as they can come in a variety of designs and materials, ranging from classic to modern and minimalist to ornate. With the advancement of technology, clocks have evolved beyond their primary timekeeping function and may now offer additional features such as alarms, timers, and even connectivity to other devices.
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• A machine which shows the time of day and strikes the hours; clockmaker, one who makes clocks; clock-work, mechanism like a clock; o'clock, contraction for "time of, on, or by the clock".
• Familiar name of the common beetle.
• The cry of the brooding hen-see cluck.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CLOCK *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CLOCK
Etymology of CLOCK
The word "clock" comes from the Middle Dutch word "klocke", which in turn is derived from the Medieval Latin word "clocca" or "cloca", meaning "bell". Originally, the term "clock" referred to the bell or the bell-shaped object that rang to mark the time. Over time, the meaning shifted, and "clock" began to refer to the mechanical device used to measure and indicate time.
Idioms with the word CLOCK
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watch the clock
The idiom "watch the clock" means to constantly monitor or keep track of the time, typically indicating a feeling of impatience or boredom. It implies a desire for time to pass quickly or to be aware of how much time is remaining.
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punch the clock
The idiom "punch the clock" means to clock in or out of work, typically in a routine and mechanical manner. It refers to the action of using a time clock or punch card machine to record one's arrival or departure, suggesting a job that is performed strictly on schedule and with little personal investment.
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clock out
The idiom "clock out" refers to the act of ending or completing one's work shift or job for the day by officially recording the time of departure on a time clock or similar device. It is commonly used to indicate the moment when an employee finishes working and is free to leave their workplace.
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clock in
The idiom "clock in" means to record or officially register one's arrival or beginning of work, typically by punching a time clock or using a digital system. It is commonly used to refer to the act of formally starting one's work shift or entering work premises.
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clock sth up
The definition of the idiom "clock something up" is to accumulate or amass a certain amount or quantity, often referring to achievements, points, scores, or miles. It implies the act of recording or tallying something over a period of time.
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clock sm in
The idiom "clock sm in" refers to completing or finishing something within a very tight or limited timeframe, typically just before a deadline. It implies accomplishing a task or meeting a requirement at the last possible moment.
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stop the clock
The idiom "stop the clock" is typically used to express a desire to freeze or halt the passage of time, especially in situations where one wishes to prolong an enjoyable moment or delay an impending loss or deadline. It signifies the wish for time to stand still so that a particular moment or experience can be preserved or extended.
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run down/out the clock
The idiom "run down/out the clock" refers to a situation where someone deliberately delays or stalls, usually in a sporting context, to ensure that time runs out before something unfavorable or challenging occurs. It means to effectively use up remaining time without making any significant progress or taking unnecessary risks. This idiom is often used in reference to strategies employed in games or competitions to secure a victory, prevent the opposing team from scoring, or avoid a potential setback.
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clock up
The idiom "clock up" means to accumulate or record a certain amount of something, typically time or a particular achievement or milestone. It often refers to the act of counting or tallying up a total.
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move the/(one's) clock(s) forward
The idiom "move the/(one's) clock(s) forward" generally refers to the act of advancing time, typically by adjusting the clocks to move to a future time or to adjust for daylight saving time. It can be used literally in the context of changing the time on clocks, or figuratively to mean progressing or advancing in a certain situation.
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on the clock
The idiom "on the clock" refers to the state of being actively working or officially on duty, typically referring to an employee being paid for their time and effort. It signifies that someone is being monitored and expected to fulfill their professional responsibilities during a specific period of time.
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punch a/the clock
The idiom "punch a/the clock" refers to the act of recording one's arrival and departure times at work, typically by using a time clock or similar device. It signifies the process of officially marking one's attendance, particularly in jobs where timekeeping is closely monitored.
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put the/(one's) clock(s) forward
The idiom "put the/(one's) clock(s) forward" refers to changing the time displayed on a clock to be ahead by one hour, typically done in regions that observe daylight saving time. It signifies adjusting one's clock to reflect the shift in time during this practice.
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run the clock down
The idiom "run the clock down" means to purposely take actions or make decisions that waste time in order to delay an outcome or prevent an opponent from gaining an advantage. It is often used in sports contexts, referring to a team deliberately using up as much time as possible before the game ends. In a broader sense, it can also refer to procrastinating or deliberately slowing progress to delay a final decision or outcome.
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stop someone's clock
The idiom "stop someone's clock" typically refers to an action or event that completely astonishes or overwhelms someone, catching them off guard or leaving them momentarily unable to react or respond. It is often used to convey the idea of surprising or stunning someone to such an extent that time seems to stop for them.
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turn the/(one's) clock(s) forward
The idiom "turn the/(one's) clock(s) forward" refers to the act of adjusting the time on a clock or watch to move it ahead by one hour, typically done to account for Daylight Saving Time. However, figuratively, it can also mean progressing or advancing in time or progress in general.
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turn back the clock
The idiom "turn back the clock" means to attempt to go back in time and undo or reverse certain events or actions, often in the hope of rectifying one's mistakes or changing the outcome of a situation. It implies a desire to return to a previous point in time when things were better or different.
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work against the clock
The idiom "work against the clock" means to be in a situation where there is limited time available to accomplish a task or complete a project, often creating a sense of urgency and pressure.
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clock watcher
The idiom "clock watcher" refers to someone who constantly looks at or focuses on the clock, showing a strong desire for the workday to end or for an event or activity to be over so they can leave. It typically implies a lack of interest or motivation in the current task or situation.
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sb's biological clock is ticking (away)
The idiom "sb's biological clock is ticking (away)" refers to the natural instinct or desire that individuals, typically women, feel when they want to have a child or start a family. It implies a sense of urgency or pressure to conceive or start a family due to age or societal expectations.
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clean clock
The idiom "clean someone's clock" means to defeat or overpower someone decisively, usually in a competition or conflict.
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turn the clock back
The idiom "turn the clock back" means to go back in time or reverse a previous action. It is often used to express a desire to return to an earlier point or to undo something that has already happened.
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run out the clock
The idiom "run out the clock" refers to intentionally using up all available time or delaying an action in order to avoid a negative outcome or maintain a favorable situation. It often suggests eliminating the possibility of further action or preventing the opposition from achieving their goal by simply waiting until time expires.
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(the) clock is ticking
The idiom "(the) clock is ticking" refers to time passing and emphasizing that there is limited time available to accomplish or complete something. It conveys a sense of urgency and the need to act quickly or make a decision before it's too late.
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clean somebody's clock
The idiom "clean somebody's clock" means to defeat or outperform someone decisively and thoroughly. It often implies that the victory was unexpected or that the person was completely dominated in a competition or confrontation.
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have/keep your eye on the clock, at be watching the clock
The idiom "have/keep your eye on the clock" or "be watching the clock" means to pay close attention to the time or monitor it closely, often because one is waiting for a specific event or deadline. It implies being aware of how much time has passed and how much time remaining is, usually indicating a sense of impatience or anticipation.
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against the clock
The idiom "against the clock" means to work or compete with a sense of urgency and time constraint, as if trying to beat a deadline or time limit. It suggests that time is limited and one must work quickly to achieve a goal or complete a task.
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a race against the clock
The idiom "a race against the clock" means to be in a situation where one is rushing to finish a task or reach a goal before a specific deadline or time runs out. It signifies a highly time-sensitive situation where time is limited and there is a need to act quickly and efficiently.
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round the clock
The idiom "round the clock" means continuously or without stopping, typically referring to a task or activity that is being done 24 hours a day, without any breaks or interruptions.
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kill the clock
The idiom "kill the clock" means to intentionally waste time or delay taking action in order to make time pass more quickly, especially in a situation that one finds boring or tedious.
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biological clock is ticking
The idiom "biological clock is ticking" refers to the natural or innate sense of timing or urgency that individuals often feel when it comes to certain life events, especially regarding starting a family or having children. It suggests that there is a limited window of time within which these events are considered most optimal or feasible due to age or biological factors.
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punch a (time) clock
To "punch a (time) clock" is an idiomatic expression that refers to the act of regularly clocking in or out at work using a time-punching machine. It symbolizes following a fixed schedule and working in a structured environment with set hours. The expression is often used to indicate a routine job or lack of autonomy and flexibility in work.
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clean (someone's) clock
The idiom "clean (someone's) clock" means to defeat or outperform someone decisively, often in a competitive situation. It implies overwhelming victory or superiority over the other person or team.
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a race against time/the clock
The idiom "a race against time/the clock" is used to describe a situation where someone is attempting to accomplish something within a limited amount of time. It signifies a situation where there is a sense of urgency and pressure to complete a task or achieve a goal before a deadline or time limit expires. It can be used in various contexts, such as work, sports, or personal situations, where time is a crucial factor and every second counts in order to succeed.
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homely enough to stop a clock
The idiom "homely enough to stop a clock" is a figurative phrase used to describe someone's unattractive or plain appearance. It suggests that the person's looks are so unremarkable that they have the ability to "stop a clock" or make time stand still due to their lack of beauty. It emphasizes the perceived unattractiveness or lack of aesthetic appeal of an individual.
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punch a clock
The idiom "punch a clock" refers to the act of recording one's arrival and departure times from work by using a time clock or similar device. It symbolizes adhering strictly to the scheduled working hours and highlights a routine or mundane job that requires strict timekeeping.
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clock sm or sth at sth
The idiomatic phrase "clock [someone or something] at [something]" typically refers to the act of determining or recording the speed, time, or duration of someone or something. It implies accurately measuring or monitoring the mentioned action.
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beat the clock
The idiom "beat the clock" means to successfully complete a task or activity before a designated time limit expires. It is often used to describe a situation where someone accomplishes something quickly or efficiently, often in a race against time or an impending deadline.
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around/round the clock
The idiom "around/round the clock" refers to something that occurs continuously or non-stop, without interruption, for a full 24 hours or day and night. It signifies that the activity or operation is happening constantly, without rest or breaks.
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around the clock
The idiom "around the clock" means continuously or non-stop, without taking any breaks or pauses, to imply that something is happening or being done 24 hours a day.
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clock (someone or something) at (a certain speed)
The idiom "clock (someone or something) at (a certain speed)" means to measure or determine the speed at which someone or something is moving. It often implies using a stopwatch or another timekeeping device to calculate the speed accurately.
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set back the clock
The idiom "set back the clock" means to revert or go back to a previous time, often referring to a regression or reversal of progress, advancements, or changes that have taken place. It suggests undoing or erasing the effects of certain developments, actions, or improvements.
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be watching the clock
The idiom "be watching the clock" means to constantly look at or check the time, typically out of eagerness for a certain event or to track the passing of time. It implies being impatient or eager for something to happen, often indicating boredom or a lack of interest in the current situation.
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put the clock back
The idiom "put the clock back" means to revert to a previous, usually less advanced, state or condition. It refers to undoing progress or moving backward in time or development.
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clock is ticking, the
The idiom "clock is ticking" means that time is passing by quickly and there is limited time left to do something or make a decision. It relates to the ticking sound made by a clock, which signifies the passage of time.
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round/around the clock
The idiom "round/around the clock" means continuous or nonstop, without any break or pause, typically used to describe something that happens or operates 24 hours a day or for an extended period without interruption.
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clock at speeds of
The idiom "clock at speeds of" means to measure or record the speed or pace at which something is moving or progressing. It often implies that the speed is high or impressive.
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a race against time clock
The idiom "a race against the clock" refers to a situation or effort where there is limited time available to complete a task or achieve a goal. It implies that time is running out and there is a sense of urgency and pressure to beat the time constraint.
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(a)round the clock
The idiom "(a)round the clock" is used to describe an action or situation that occurs continuously or nonstop without pause. It implies that something is happening or being done 24 hours a day, seven days a week, without any interruption.
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turn the/(one's) clock(s) back
The idiom "turn the/(one's) clock(s) back" typically refers to the act of adjusting the time on a clock to an earlier setting, usually by one hour. It is often associated with the biannual practice of changing clocks during Daylight Saving Time when the time is set back by an hour in certain countries. Figuratively, it can also imply going back in time or reverting to a previous state or condition.
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face (that) would stop a clock
The idiom "face (that) would stop a clock" is used to describe an exceptionally unattractive or ugly face. It suggests that if someone with such a face were to pass by a clock, it would come to a halt due to the shock or disgust caused by their appearance.
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wind back the clock
The idiom "wind back the clock" refers to going back in time or returning to a previous period or situation, imagining or attempting to reverse or undo the effects of time. It suggests the desire to revisit or recreate a past state, often associated with nostalgia or yearning for a simpler or better time.
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a stopped clock is right twice a day
The idiom "a stopped clock is right twice a day" means that even someone who is consistently wrong or unreliable will occasionally be correct by chance or through simple luck at some point.
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sleep around the clock
The idiom "sleep around the clock" means to sleep for an extended period of time, typically without interruptions, often involving sleeping for a full 24 hours or more.
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clock something up
The idiom "clock something up" means to accumulate or achieve something, often in terms of time, distance, or a number. It refers to keeping track or recording such achievements.
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clock someone in
The idiom "clock someone in" typically means to strike or punch someone forcefully. It suggests delivering a blow that is strong enough to figuratively stop or slow down the person being hit, as if they were stopped by a clock.
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put back the clock
The idiom "put back the clock" refers to the act of reverting to an earlier state or going back in time. It implies the desire to return to a previous period or to undo progress or changes that have occurred. It can also suggest a nostalgic longing for the way things used to be.
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race against the clock
The idiom "race against the clock" refers to a situation where someone is hurriedly trying to complete a task before a set deadline or time limit. It implies a sense of urgency and implies that time is running out.
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push back the clock
The idiom "push back the clock" means to try to go back in time, undo past events, or revert to a previous state or situation. It implies attempting to reverse the passage of time or turn back the hands of a clock, which is impossible in reality. However, the idiom is typically used metaphorically to express a desire to change or alter something that has already happened.
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get (one's) clock cleaned
The idiom "get (one's) clock cleaned" means to be thoroughly defeated or beaten, usually in a physical or competitive context. It implies a significant and decisive loss or defeat where the opponent or situation completely overwhelms or dominates someone.
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put/turn the clock back
The idiom "put/turn the clock back" refers to the act of reverting to a previous state, condition, or time period, often in an attempt to reverse negative consequences or undo past mistakes. It implies a desire to return to a simpler or more favorable situation, as if one could physically turn back time. However, in reality, it is impossible to change the past. The expression is typically used metaphorically to express a longing for a specific point in history or a different era when things were perceived as better or easier.
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run down the clock
The idiom "run down the clock" means to intentionally waste time or extend a specific period in order to delay an outcome or prevent any further progress or action from taking place.
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roll back the clock
The idiom "roll back the clock" refers to the act of returning to an earlier time, often in the sense of reverting to a previous situation or condition. It conveys the idea of undoing or reversing the progress or changes that have occurred, in order to go back to a desired state or moment in the past.
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clock at
The idiom "clock at" has two possible definitions:
1. To register or record the exact time that someone arrived at or left a place. This is often used in the context of work or attendance. For example, "She clocked at 8:30 a.m." means that she arrived at work at that time according to the official clocking-in system.
2. To measure or calculate the speed or duration of something. This is typically used in reference to an activity or task. For instance, "He clocked at 100 miles per hour" means that he was driving at that speed according to a speedometer or radar device.
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clock in (or out)
The idiom "clock in (or out)" typically refers to the act of officially recording one's arrival or departure from work by using a time clock or an electronic system. It generally signifies the beginning or end of an employee's work shift, and the record is used for tracking attendance, calculating hours worked, and determining wages.
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against time/the clock
The idiom "against time/the clock" refers to a situation where there is a sense of urgency or pressure due to limited time available to accomplish a task or reach a goal. It implies that one is racing against a deadline or time constraint.
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clock sm out
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set the/(one's) clock(s) back
The idiom "set the/(one's) clock(s) back" means to adjust the time on a clock to an earlier hour, typically to account for the end of daylight saving time or to deceive someone about the actual time. It can also be used figuratively to mean going back in time or reverting to a previous state.
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clock someone out
To forcibly remove or physically eject someone from a place or situation.
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know what's o'clock
To know what's o'clock means to have a good understanding of a situation or to be well-informed about current events. It can also mean to be aware of the right time or to be punctual.
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put the/(one's) clock(s) back
To return to standard time after having advanced the clocks for daylight saving time, or to figuratively revert or regress in progress or development.
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move the/(one's) clock(s) back
To set the clock(s) to an earlier time, typically done in autumn when daylight saving time ends.
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roll on the weekend, five o'clock, etc.
This idiom is used to express excitement or anticipation for the weekend or the end of the workday. It implies a desire for time to pass quickly in order to reach a more enjoyable or relaxing period.
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set the/(one's) clock(s) ahead
To set the/(one's) clock(s) ahead means to adjust the time on a clock or watch to be a few minutes or hours ahead of the actual time, often done as a way to ensure being on time or to trick oneself into being punctual.
Similar spelling words for CLOCK
- clocks,
- cloche,
- lock,
- clx,
- Cleek,
- block,
- clerk,
- cock,
- cluck,
- clog,
- cloak,
- clack,
- click,
- flock,
- Clichy,
- clukey,
- cliche,
- o'clock.
Conjugate verb Clock
CONDITIONAL PERFECT
I
would have clocked
you
would have clocked
he/she/it
would have clocked
we
would have clocked
they
would have clocked
I
would have clock
you
would have clock
he/she/it
would have clock
we
would have clock
they
would have clock
CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE
I
would have been clocking
you
would have been clocking
he/she/it
would have been clocking
we
would have been clocking
they
would have been clocking
CONDITIONAL PRESENT
I
would clock
you
would clock
he/she/it
would clock
we
would clock
they
would clock
CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE
I
would be clocking
you
would be clocking
he/she/it
would be clocking
we
would be clocking
they
would be clocking
FUTURE
I
will clock
you
will clock
he/she/it
will clock
we
will clock
they
will clock
FUTURE CONTINUOUS
I
will be clocking
you
will be clocking
he/she/it
will be clocking
we
will be clocking
they
will be clocking
FUTURE PERFECT
I
will have clocked
you
will have clocked
he/she/it
will have clocked
we
will have clocked
they
will have clocked
FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
will have been clocking
you
will have been clocking
he/she/it
will have been clocking
we
will have been clocking
they
will have been clocking
IMPERATIVE
you
clock
we
let´s clock
to clock
PAST CONTINUOUS
I
was clocking
you
were clocking
he/she/it
was clocking
we
were clocking
they
were clocking
PAST PARTICIPLE
clocked
PAST PERFECT
I
had clocked
you
had clocked
he/she/it
had clocked
we
had clocked
they
had clocked
PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
had been clocking
you
had been clocking
he/she/it
had been clocking
we
had been clocking
they
had been clocking
PRESENT
I
clock
you
clock
he/she/it
clocks
we
clock
they
clock
PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I
am clocking
you
are clocking
he/she/it
is clocking
we
are clocking
they
are clocking
PRESENT PARTICIPLE
clocking
PRESENT PERFECT
I
have clocked
you
have clocked
he/she/it
has clocked
we
have clocked
they
have clocked
PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS
I
have been clocking
you
have been clocking
he/she/it
has been clocking
we
have been clocking
they
have been clocking
PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE
he/she/it
clock
SIMPLE PAST
I
clocked
you
clocked
he/she/it
clocked
we
clocked
they
clocked
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