Tintinnabular is a musical term that refers to a sound characterized by the ringing of bells. This word can be tricky to spell due to its many letters and unusual pronunciation. The IPA phonetic transcription for tintinnabular is /tɪnˈtɪnəbjʊlər/, which breaks down as follows: the first syllable is pronounced "tin" with a short "i" sound, followed by "ti" with a slightly longer "i" sound, and then "na" with a short "a" sound. The second syllable is pronounced "byoo", followed by "luh" with a short "u" sound and "r" at the end.
Tintinnabular is an adjective that describes something as being characterized by the ringing or presence of bells. It is derived from the Latin word "tintinnabulum," meaning a small bell or chime.
In a literal sense, tintinnabular refers to the quality of being bell-like or having a sound similar to that of bells. This term can be used to describe the resonant and melodious tones produced by bells ringing in harmony, creating a soft and enchanting chime. Additionally, it can also refer to the presence of bells or chimes in an environment, such as the tinkling sound of wind chimes or the rhythmic ringing of bells in a church tower.
Figuratively, tintinnabular can be used to describe a musical or poetic composition that evokes the delicate and captivating sound of bells. It suggests a sense of musical beauty or lyrical quality that mirrors the enchantment and grace associated with the ringing of bells.
Furthermore, tintinnabular can also describe anything that embodies or symbolizes the presence of bells. It can pertain to decorative objects shaped like bells or objects that produce bell-like sounds, such as small percussion instruments. Additionally, it can be used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that possesses a delicate, captivating, or ethereal quality reminiscent of the harmonious and rhythmic sounds of bells.
Relating to or connected with a bell; making the sound of a bell.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word tintinnabular is derived from the Latin word tintinnabulum, which itself comes from the verb tinnire, meaning to jingle or to ring. Tintinnabulum refers to a small bell or a bell-shaped object used for ringing or making a sound. The suffix -ar in tintinnabular is an English adjectival suffix, indicating that something is related to or characterized by bells or ringing. Thus, tintinnabular describes something that is bell-like or possesses the qualities of a bell. The term is often used in the context of music or art to describe a ringing or bell-like sound, such as in Arvo Pärt's compositional style known as tintinnabuli.