bell buoy
Definition
- Noun:
- A buoy with a bell on it: A type of navigational buoy that is fitted with a bell. The bell is typically rung by the motion of the waves to warn ships of hazards like shoals or rocks.
Usage
- The term "bell buoy" is used to specify a particular kind of audible buoy. It is a compound noun.
- It is used in maritime contexts to describe a specific aid to navigation.
Examples
- Noun:
- The ship's captain heard the faint clanging of the bell buoy through the fog.
- Sailors rely on the sound from a bell buoy to avoid the reef at night.
Advanced Usage
- "To mark a channel": Bell buoys are often placed to mark the edges of safe shipping channels.
- A series of bell buoys marks the channel into the harbor.
Variants and Related Words
- Gong buoy (n): A similar navigational buoy that uses one or more gongs instead of a bell.
- Whistle buoy (n): A buoy that produces sound with a whistle.
- Lighted buoy (n): A buoy equipped with a light, often used in conjunction with sound signals.
Synonyms
- Audible buoy: A general term for any buoy that produces sound.
- Signal buoy: A buoy that provides a signal (visual or audible) to mariners.
Related Phrases
- Nautical aid to navigation: The formal category to which a bell buoy belongs.
- Fog signal: A bell buoy can act as a fog signal when visibility is poor.
Noun
-
a buoy with a bell on it
