How Do You Spell HOUR GLASS?

Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ʊ͡ə ɡlˈas] (IPA)

The correct spelling for the two-chambered device used to measure time is "hourglass." This word consists of two syllables: "hour" and "glass." The first syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /aʊ/, as in "cow," and the second syllable is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/, as in "cat." The IPA phonetic transcription for "hourglass" is /ˈaʊərˌɡlæs/. It is important to use the correct spelling of words to ensure proper communication and understanding in written texts.

HOUR GLASS Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "hourglass" refers to a device or object used to measure time, typically consisting of two glass bulbs connected by a narrow neck with a small aperture in the middle. This unique configuration often resembles the shape of a sand timer or an hourglass, hence the name. Each glass bulb is filled with sand or fine granules, which flow from the upper chamber to the lower chamber, indicating the passage of time.

    The hourglass functions based on the principle of gravity and free-flowing materials. When the device is turned upside down, the sand begins to flow downwards from the upper bulb to the lower bulb. The sand takes a specific amount of time to complete this movement, and the duration can vary depending on the design and size of the hourglass. Once all the sand has emptied into the lower bulb, it signifies the completion of the specified time interval.

    Hourglasses have historically been employed for various purposes, such as measuring time during a specific event or purpose, regulating the duration of certain activities or rituals, and for decorative purposes. Their usage spans multiple contexts, from ancient civilizations to modern-day settings.

    In contemporary times, hourglasses are often regarded as aesthetic or symbolic objects, representing the concept of time itself. They are commonly found in various settings, including homes, offices, and museums, serving as both functional timekeepers and visually appealing decorative items.

  2. An instr. made of glass for measuring an hour or other portion of time by the running out of dry sand from one compartment into another.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for HOUR GLASS

  • hourglas
  • hourglase
  • ourglass
  • horglass
  • gour glass
  • bour glass
  • nour glass
  • jour glass
  • uour glass
  • your glass
  • hiur glass
  • hkur glass
  • hlur glass
  • hpur glass
  • h0ur glass
  • h9ur glass
  • hoyr glass
  • hohr glass
  • hojr glass
  • hoir glass

Etymology of HOUR GLASS

The word "hourglass" has a fairly straightforward etymology. It is a compound noun formed by combining two words: "hour" and "glass".

"Hour" comes from the Old French word "hore" which originally came from the Latin word "hora", meaning "hour" or "time". It can be traced back to the ancient Greek word "hōra" with the same meaning.

"Glass", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "glæs" which also shares its roots with the Proto-Germanic word "glasam". This further traces back to the Latin word "glesum", meaning "amber" or "glass".

Combining "hour" and "glass" together, the term "hourglass" refers to a device that measures time using the flow of sand through a glass container with two connected bulbs.

Similar spelling words for HOUR GLASS

Plural form of HOUR GLASS is HOUR GLASSES

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