The word "pealing" refers to the loud ringing or clanging of a bell. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /ˈpiːlɪŋ/. The first syllable, "pea," is pronounced with a long vowel sound represented as /iː/. The second syllable, "ling," is pronounced with a short vowel sound represented as /ɪ/. The combination of these sounds creates the word "pealing," which accurately represents the sound of a bell ringing loud and clear.
Pealing is a verb that refers to the act of emitting a loud, clear sound, commonly associated with bells or thunder. It describes the resonant and reverberating sound produced by repeated and prolonged ringing. The term can also encompass the echoing series of sounds created by other sources such as laughter, applause, or a group of voices.
Pealing generally denotes a prolonged and boisterous ringing or sounding effect. It signifies a loud and harmonious noise that can resonate over a considerable distance. This term often conveys a sense of joy, celebration, or festivity. It is commonly used when bells are rung in churches, cathedrals, or communities to commemorate events such as weddings, special religious ceremonies, or festive occasions.
The term "pealing" can also be used more metaphorically to describe a loud and continuous sequence or succession of sounds. For instance, it can describe a situation where laughter or applause resounds through a room or a hall, creating a sense of exuberance and lively atmosphere.
In summary, pealing refers to the act or sound of producing a loud, prolonged, and harmonious ringing or sounding effect. It is often associated with the resonance of bells or thunder, although it can also include other sources of resonant and reverberating noises such as voices, laughter, or applause.
Uttering loud successive sounds; sounding as a peal.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word pealing comes from the verb peal, which dates back to the 12th century. Its etymology can be traced to the Old French word peel or pele, meaning to peel or scale off. This Old French word ultimately derived from the Latin word pilare, meaning to remove hair. Over time, the meaning of peel shifted from referring to hair removal to encompassing the idea of ringing bells, which led to the development of the word peal and its participle form, pealing.