book of kells: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Academic, Cultural
Quick answer
What does “book of kells” mean?
A famous illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, created by Celtic monks around 800 AD, renowned for its intricate decoration and calligraphy.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A famous illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, created by Celtic monks around 800 AD, renowned for its intricate decoration and calligraphy.
Often used as a symbol of early medieval Irish art, Christian heritage, and the pinnacle of Insular illumination; sometimes referenced metaphorically for any work of extraordinary artistic detail or historical significance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; both refer to the same manuscript. Spelling remains identical.
Connotations
In both varieties, carries connotations of historical artistry, Irish cultural heritage, and religious significance.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both dialects, primarily appearing in academic, historical, artistic, or tourist contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “book of kells” in a Sentence
The Book of Kells is [considered/regarded] a masterpiece.Scholars study the Book of Kells for its [art/history].The Book of Kells dates from [the 9th century].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “book of kells” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
American English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [Not applicable as a standard adjective]
American English
- [Not applicable as a standard adjective]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in tourism, publishing, or cultural merchandising.
Academic
Common in art history, medieval studies, theology, and Celtic studies.
Everyday
Rare; mainly in travel contexts or general knowledge.
Technical
Used in manuscript studies, conservation, and historical research.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “book of kells”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “book of kells”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “book of kells”
- Writing in lowercase ('book of kells').
- Using 'the' incorrectly (it's always 'the Book of Kells').
- Referring to a replica or facsimile simply as 'a Book of Kells'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is permanently housed in the Old Library at Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.
It was created around 800 AD, during the early medieval period.
It is written primarily in Latin, with some elements in Greek and Hebrew.
Yes, the original manuscript is on public display, though the page is turned periodically to limit light exposure.
A famous illuminated manuscript Gospel book in Latin, created by Celtic monks around 800 AD, renowned for its intricate decoration and calligraphy.
Book of kells is usually formal, academic, cultural in register.
Book of kells: in British English it is pronounced /ˌbʊk əv ˈkelz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌbʊk əv ˈkelz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[Not applicable for proper nouns of unique artifacts]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Kells' rhymes with 'spells' – a book with magical-looking illustrations.
Conceptual Metaphor
A MASTERPIECE IS A TREASURE (e.g., 'The Book of Kells is a national treasure.'); INTRICATE DETAIL IS A LABYRINTH (e.g., 'The pages are a labyrinth of decoration.')
Practice
Quiz
What is the Book of Kells?