The phrase "strike the hour" refers to the action of a clock striking the number of hours on the hour. The pronunciation of this phrase can be written using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /straɪk ði ˈaʊə/. The first word, "strike," is pronounced with a long 'i' sound followed by a voiceless 'k' sound, and the second word, "the," is pronounced with a voiced 'th' sound followed by a schwa vowel. Finally, "hour" is pronounced with a diphthong 'aʊ' sound and a silent 'r' sound.
"Strike the hour" refers to the act of a clock or timekeeping device producing audible sounds, typically in the form of chimes, bells, or mechanical clicks, to indicate the exact hour of the day. This term is commonly used to describe the action of a clock striking one, two, three, etc., times to correspond with the number of hours that have passed since the previous full hour.
When a clock strikes the hour, it emits a series of distinct sounds that are often synchronized with the mechanical movement of its internal components. The specific sounds produced can vary depending on the design and mechanism of the clock. Traditional mechanical clocks employ weighted pendulums or springs that operate gears and hammers which strike against bells or chime rods to create the characteristic sound.
The phrase "strike the hour" can also have a metaphorical meaning, alluding to an action or event that occurs precisely on the hour or at the appointed time. This usage is often employed to describe actions that need to be executed promptly and punctually, such as meetings, gatherings, or tasks that are scheduled to begin on the hour.
Overall, "strike the hour" captures the fundamental concept of a clock generating audible signals to denote the completion of each hour, while also embodying the idea of timely execution and punctuality.