Hourglass

usgb/ˈaʊərɡlæs/
noun

A device for measuring time, made of two glass compartments linked by a narrow passage, with sand falling through it from the top part to the bottom part in an hour.

In the old times, people used an hourglass to keep track of time.
Visual representation of "hourglass" - A device for measuring time, made of two glass compartments linked by a narrow passage, with sand falling through it from the top part to the bottom part in an hour.

Often appears as...

  • turn the hourglass
  • hourglass figure
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "hourglass"
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Historical Usage

The hourglass is often used in historical or older contexts, not modern ones.

Illustration for Historical Usage
They relied on an hourglass to track the watch shifts on the sailing ship.
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Visual Symbol

The hourglass can symbolize the passage of time in art and literature.

Illustration for Visual Symbol
The hourglass in the painting reminded viewers of life's brevity.
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Not for Precision

Hourglasses aren't precise; they provide a rough measure of time.

Illustration for Not for Precision
You can't use an hourglass to time your minute-long speech accurately.
Visual representation of the word "Hourglass"

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