bellows

noun

bel·​lows ˈbe-(ˌ)lōz 

-ləz

plural in form but singular or plural in construction

1

: an instrument or machine that by alternate expansion and contraction draws in air through a valve or orifice and expels it through a tube

also : any of various other blowers

2

: lungs

3

: the pleated expansible part in a camera

also : a metallic or plastic flexible and expansible vessel

Word History

Etymology

Middle English bely, below, belwes — more at belly

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for bellows

• cellos
• fellows
• yellows
• bedfellows
• marshmallows
• schoolfellows

Kids Definition

bellows

singular or plural noun

bel·​lows ˈbel-ōz 

-əz

1

: a device that produces a strong current of air when it is spread apart and then pressed together

2

: a part of some cameras that is pleated and can expand

Medical Definition

bellows

noun, plural in form but singular or plural in construction

bel·​lows ˈbel-(ˌ)ōz, -əz 

: lungs

Biographical Definition

Bellows

biographical name

Bel·​lows ˈbe-(ˌ)lōz 

George Wesley 1882–1925 American painter