lighthouse clock: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowSpecialized/Technical (Horology)
Quick answer
What does “lighthouse clock” mean?
A tall mantel clock of a distinctive design, often with a domed top and a circular base, resembling the shape of a lighthouse.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A tall mantel clock of a distinctive design, often with a domed top and a circular base, resembling the shape of a lighthouse.
A specific style of antique or decorative clock, historically popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries, characterized by its vertical, tower-like form and sometimes featuring an alarm bell.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage is identical in both variants; the term describes a specific historical object type.
Connotations
Evokes antique collecting, horology, and historical interior design.
Frequency
Extremely rare in general discourse. Used primarily by antique dealers, collectors, and horologists.
Grammar
How to Use “lighthouse clock” in a Sentence
The [material] lighthouse clock [stood/chimed] on the mantelpiece.He collects antique [French] lighthouse clocks.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in auction catalogues or antique shop listings to describe a specific lot.
Academic
Used in historical or design papers on horology or 19th-century decorative arts.
Everyday
Almost never used. Would require explanation.
Technical
Standard term within horology for that specific clock design.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “lighthouse clock”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “lighthouse clock”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “lighthouse clock”
- Using it to refer to any clock located in an actual lighthouse.
- Confusing it with a 'grandfather clock' (which is floor-standing).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is not. The name comes purely from its physical resemblance to the shape of a lighthouse tower. It is a type of domestic mantel or carriage clock.
A lighthouse clock is a specific subtype of carriage clock. While many carriage clocks are rectangular, the lighthouse clock is defined by its taller, more vertical and cylindrical or tapered shape with a domed top.
They were most popular during the 19th century, particularly in France and England, as part of the trend for ornate decorative objects.
Antique models by known makers (like French firms Japy or L'Épée) can be quite valuable to collectors. Mass-produced or later reproductions have less value.
A tall mantel clock of a distinctive design, often with a domed top and a circular base, resembling the shape of a lighthouse.
Lighthouse clock is usually specialized/technical (horology) in register.
Lighthouse clock: in British English it is pronounced /ˈlaɪt.haʊs ˌklɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈlaɪt.haʊs ˌklɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a tiny, working clock sitting inside the lantern room of a miniature lighthouse on your mantel.
Conceptual Metaphor
A TALL/SLIM OBJECT IS A LIGHTHOUSE (shape-based).
Practice
Quiz
What is a defining characteristic of a lighthouse clock?