BOWBELL Meaning and
Definition
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Bowbell is a term that refers to the sound of the bells of the church of St. Mary-le-Bow in the historic City of London. It has come to represent a symbol of the traditional Cockney identity, and individuals from this region are often referred to as "Bowbells." The term "Bowbell" is a fusion of "Bow," which is the name of a district in East London, and "bell," representing the church bells themselves.
The impact of the Bowbell is deeply rooted in the history and cultural heritage of London. The bells were historically renowned for their distinctive peal, and the ability to hear them was considered a marker of true Cockney heritage. In fact, there is an old English nursery rhyme, which states, "Oranges and lemons, say the bells of St. Clement's; You owe me five farthings, say the bells of St. Martin's; When will you pay me? say the bells of Old Bailey; When I grow rich, say the bells of Shoreditch; When will that be? say the bells of Stepney…"
In modern times, the term "Bowbell" is often used to denote someone who was born and raised within the sound of the bells. It has become synonymous with the distinctive dialect and cultural traits associated with the East End of London. The term may also be used more broadly to refer to individuals who exhibit the recognizable Cockney accent, regardless of their actual geographic origin.
Common Misspellings for BOWBELL
- howbell
- biwbell
- bkwbell
- blwbell
- bpwbell
- b0wbell
- b9wbell
- boqbell
- boabell
- bosbell
- boebell
- bo3bell
- bo2bell
- bowvell
- bownell
- bowhell
- bowgell
- bowbwll
- bowbsll
- Bowbgll
Etymology of BOWBELL
The word "Bowbell" is derived from an Old English term "bugele" or "bow bell". The term "bow" refers to "a curved or arched shape" and "bell" represents the musical instrument. In early London, the term "Bowbell" specifically referred to the bells of the church of St. Mary-le-Bow, situated in the district of Bow. This church became famous for its distinctive bells, and any person born within the bell's hearing was considered a true Cockney. As a result, the term "Bowbell" came to be associated with someone born within the sound of Bow Church's bells. Today, it is more commonly used in a figurative sense to refer to a true Londoner or someone with a strong Cockney heritage.
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