TOWER CLOCK Meaning and
Definition
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A tower clock, also known as a turret clock or landmark clock, is a large mechanical timekeeping device typically housed in a tower structure. It is designed to be visually prominent and visible from great distances, serving as a public time display for the surrounding community.
Tower clocks are usually gravity-driven mechanisms that rely on weights or counterweights to power the clock movement. They often incorporate a pendulum or escapement mechanism to regulate the flow of energy, ensuring accurate timekeeping. Traditional tower clocks are wound manually by cranking a lever or using a key to lift the weights, while modern versions may employ electric motors or other automatic winding systems.
The dial of a tower clock is usually situated on the exterior of the tower, with large, easily readable hands indicating the hours, minutes, and sometimes seconds. The clock face typically features roman or arabic numerals, and may include additional markings for minutes or quarter-hours. In some instances, the clock may also include other indications such as lunar phases, astronomical data, or symbols representing the local community or historical events.
Tower clocks play a crucial role in public life, serving as a reliable source of time for regulating daily activities and facilitating synchronization within a community. They are commonly found on landmarks, government buildings, churches, or town halls, adding to the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the surroundings. Tower clocks have become symbolic of civic pride and historical heritage, as they often endure for generations, transcending time itself.
Common Misspellings for TOWER CLOCK
- rower clock
- fower clock
- gower clock
- yower clock
- 6ower clock
- 5ower clock
- tiwer clock
- tkwer clock
- tlwer clock
- tpwer clock
- t0wer clock
- t9wer clock
- toqer clock
- toaer clock
- toser clock
- toeer clock
- to3er clock
- to2er clock
- towwr clock
- towsr clock
Etymology of TOWER CLOCK
The term "tower clock" comprises two words with distinct origins: "tower" and "clock".
The word "tower" originates from the Old English word "torr" or "tor" which meant a tall structure or a fortified building. It is derived from the Latin "turrem" meaning "tower" or "high place". The Latin term itself is related to the Greek word "tyrios" meaning "tower" or "high point".
The word "clock" traces its roots to the Middle English word "clokke" or "clok(e)" which referred to a timekeeping device. This Middle English term is evolved from the Old North French word "cloche" meaning "bell" or "clock". The Old North French word has its origins in the Medieval Latin word "cloca" which also meant "bell".
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