Pronunciation: [nˈɛlɪŋ] (IPA) 
The word "knelling" is spelled with a silent K at the beginning, followed by the letters N, E, L, and L. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /ˈnɛlɪŋ/. The first syllable "kn-" is pronounced as /n/ alone, and the following "e" is pronounced as /ɛ/. The "l" in "knell" is pronounced as /l/, while the second "l" is followed by a vowel and pronounced as /l̩/. Finally, the ending "-ing" is pronounced as /ɪŋ/.
Knelling is a term used to describe the act of sounding a bell in a slow, solemn manner. It is typically associated with funeral or memorial services, where bells are rung to signal the passing of an individual and to create an atmosphere of reverence and mourning. The word "knell" originates from Old English and Middle English, and is derived from the verb "knellen," meaning "to toll a bell."
When a bell is knelled, it is struck or rung slowly and evenly, producing a deep, resonant sound that carries a sense of solemnity and gravity. This deliberate and mournful tolling serves as a ceremonial tribute to the deceased, an auditory expression of grief, and a symbol for the finality and transience of life. The repetitive and measured ringing of a knell bell can also evoke a sense of contemplation and reflection among those who hear it.
Knelling has deep historical and cultural significance, with its origins dating back to ancient times. Bells were initially used to communicate various messages to communities, but over time, they became associated with mourning and death. Today, the practice of knelling is often observed in religious and secular funeral services as a time-honored tradition to pay respect to the departed and to provide a solemn atmosphere for mourning and remembrance.
A sounding or tolling, as a funeral bell.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "knelling" is derived from the verb "knell". The term "knell" originated from the Old English word "cnyllan", which means "to sound with a bell" or "to strike a funeral bell". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "knallan", which shares a similar meaning. The use of "knell" as a noun, referring to the sound of a bell tolling at a funeral or during times of mourning, became prominent in Middle English and has persisted in the English language to this day. From "knell", the gerund form "knelling" is derived, describing the action or process of tolling a bell.
