Bellows is a device that is used to create a strong blast of air or wind. It is a simple yet effective tool that has been used for centuries in various fields, including blacksmithing, photography, and music. In this article, we will delve deeper into the meaning and definition of bellows, its origin, and its use in different dictionaries, along with its associations, synonyms, and antonyms.
Definitions
Bellows can be defined as a device that consists of a flexible bag that is used to create a strong blast of air or wind. It is typically made of leather or rubber and is used to blow air into a fire or furnace to increase its heat. Bellows can also be used to inflate objects like balloons or to create wind for musical instruments like the accordion.
Origin
The word bellows is derived from the Old English word “bælg” which means bag or pouch. The first known use of bellows dates back to the 15th century, where it was used in blacksmithing to increase the heat of the fire. Over time, the design of bellows has evolved, and today, it is used in various fields.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bellows is defined as “a device that consists of a flexible bag that is used to create a strong blast of air or wind.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a device for creating a strong blast of air, typically used to increase the heat of a fire.”
Associations
Bellows is commonly associated with blacksmithing, where it is used to increase the heat of the fire. It is also used in photography to remove dust from the camera lens and in music to create wind for instruments like the accordion.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bellows include blowpipe, fan, and air pump.
Antonyms
There are no specific antonyms of bellows, but some words that are opposite in meaning include calm, still, and quiet.
The same root words
The word “bælg” is the Old English root word for bellows. Other words that have the same root include bulge, belly, and bag.
Example Sentences
- The blacksmith used the bellows to increase the heat of the fire.
- The photographer used the bellows to remove dust from the camera lens.
- The accordion player used the bellows to create wind for the instrument.
- The blowpipe works like a bellows to create a strong blast of air.
- The air pump is a modern version of the bellows.