Hourglass — Meaning, Definition & Synonyms

noun adjective /ˈau̇(-ə)r-ˌglas/ hour·glass

Meaning & Definition of Hourglass

Hourglass (noun)

  1. an instrument for measuring time consisting of a glass vessel having two compartments from the upper of which a quantity of usually sand runs in an hour into the lower one

Hourglass (adjective)

  1. shaped like an hourglass

Hourglass (noun) — Senses, Synonyms & Antonyms

  1. as in sundial, water clock

    similar: clepsydra, sandglass, sundial, water clock, alarm clock, atomic clock, cuckoo clock, grandfather clock, time clock, chronograph, stopwatch, watch, chronometer, clock, timekeeper, timepiece, timer

Synonyms, Thesaurus & Another Word for Hourglass

The most common words with a similar meaning to Hourglass:

clepsydra, sandglass, sundial, water clock, alarm clock, atomic clock, cuckoo clock, grandfather clock, time clock, chronograph, stopwatch, watch, chronometer, clock, timekeeper, timepiece, timer

Origin & Etymology of Hourglass

First known use: circa 1515

Frequently Asked Questions about Hourglass

What does "Hourglass" mean?

"Hourglass" means an instrument for measuring time consisting of a glass vessel having two compartments from the upper of which a quantity of usually sand runs in an hour into the lower one. As an a noun and an adjective, it is defined as: an instrument for measuring time consisting of a glass vessel having two compartments from the upper of which a quantity of usually sand runs in an hour into the lower one.

What is another word for "Hourglass"?

Other words for "Hourglass" include clepsydra, sandglass, sundial, water clock, alarm clock, atomic clock, cuckoo clock and grandfather clock. The best synonym depends on which meaning of "Hourglass" you intend.

What are different ways to say "Hourglass"?

There are 17 words and phrases with a similar meaning to "Hourglass". Common alternatives include clepsydra, sandglass, sundial, water clock, alarm clock, atomic clock, cuckoo clock, grandfather clock, time clock and chronograph.

Is "Hourglass" a noun, verb, or adjective?

"Hourglass" can be used as a noun and an adjective, depending on the context.

How do you pronounce "Hourglass"?

"Hourglass" is pronounced /ˈau̇(-ə)r-ˌglas/ and divided into syllables as hour·glass.

What is the origin of the word "Hourglass"?

First known use: circa 1515.

What is another word for "Hourglass" meaning "as in sundial, water clock"?

When "Hourglass" (noun) means as in sundial, water clock, synonyms include clepsydra, sandglass, sundial, water clock, alarm clock and atomic clock.

What does "Hourglass" mean as a noun?

As a noun, "Hourglass" means: an instrument for measuring time consisting of a glass vessel having two compartments from the upper of which a quantity of usually sand runs in an hour into the lower one.