clapper
clapper — noun
- clappersingular
- clappersplural
1. A metal striker fitted within a bell, moving back and forth to hit the inside an
A metal striker fitted within a bell, moving back and forth to hit the inside and create the ringing sound.
The church bell stayed silent because its clapper had broken off.
bell + clapper for the striking part inside a bell
A blacksmith made a new clapper for the cracked village bell.
When the clapper hit the bronze wall, the hall filled with sound.
Workers removed the heavy clapper before moving the old tower bell.
- bell clapper
- broken clapper
- replace the clapper
- iron clapper
- tongue
older or more literary term for the part inside a bell
Usage Note
Usually appears with words such as bell, church bell, or tower bell. In everyday modern English, many speakers use clapper more readily than the older synonym tongue for this bell part.
2. A person who claps to show approval at a performance, speech, or public event.
A person who claps to show approval at a performance, speech, or public event.
Every comedian loves a clapper in the front row.
clapper = person who applauds loudly or eagerly
The singer thanked the front-row clappers before leaving the club.
At the talent show, the loudest clapper was Mina's little brother.
Reporters noticed the same clappers at each rally that week.
- front-row clapper
- loyal clappers
- paid clappers
- political clappers
Usage Note
Often sounds slightly critical, especially if the applause seems automatic, organised, or more loyal than sincere. In neutral everyday English, people more often say audience member, fan, or simply person in the crowd.