Langimage
English

tolling

|toll-ing|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈtoʊlɪŋ/

🇬🇧

/ˈtəʊlɪŋ/

(toll)

ringing a bell

Base FormPluralPresentPastPast ParticiplePresent Participle
tolltollstollingtolledtolledtolling
Etymology
Etymology Information

'toll' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'tollian,' where 'toll' meant 'to count or enumerate.'

Historical Evolution

'tollian' transformed into the Middle English word 'tollen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'toll.'

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to count or enumerate,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to ring a bell.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

the act of ringing a bell, especially in a slow, solemn manner.

The church bells were tolling for the funeral.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to announce or signal something, often a significant event or change.

The bell tolled the end of the ceremony.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35