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- Clock - meaning & definition
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/klɒk/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A device used for measuring and indicating time.
I bought a new clock for my living room that has a beautiful design.
An arrangement of parts in a work of machinery that indicates the time.
The clock in the factory helps synchronize the workflow among the workers.
The mechanism in a computer or electronic device that controls the timing of operations.
The computer's clock frequency is measured in gigahertz.
A period of time, especially one used for reference.
He finished the project just as the clock struck five.
verb
To measure the time taken to complete a task, often used in sports or competitions.
They clocked her running the marathon in just under three hours.
To observe or record the time indicated by a clock.
Please clock the start time of the meeting.
To hit or strike someone, often in a forceful or sudden manner.
He clocked his opponent with a solid punch during the boxing match.
Etymology
Middle English 'clokke,' from Old French 'cloche' meaning bell.
Common Phrases and Expressions
against the clock
In a hurry or under time pressure.
clock in
To register the time of arrival at work.
clock out
To register the time of leaving work.
watch the clock
To be conscious of the passing time, often because one is bored.
beat the clock
To finish something before the deadline.
Related Words
time
The indefinite continued progress of existence and events.
hour
A unit of time equal to 60 minutes.
minute
A unit of time equal to 60 seconds.
second
A unit of time equal to one sixtieth of a minute.
schedule
A plan for carrying out a process or procedure.
Slang Meanings
To clock someone
He clocked his friend in the face during the argument.
Clocked in
She clocked in at work right on time.
Clocking out
After a long day, I finally started clocking out.