bell (redirected from belling the cat)

alarm bells start to ring

set (the) alarm bells ringing - if something sets alarm bells ringing, it makes you feel worried because it is a sign that there may be a problem. Alarm bells started to ring (= I became worried) when I found out that he still lived with his mother.

See also: alarm, ring, start

be as sound as a bell

to be very healthy or in very good condition. Her constitution is as sound as a bell.

See also: sound

bells and whistles

the things that something, especially a device or machine, has or does that are not necessary but that make it more exciting or interesting. Your computer software may have all the latest bells and whistles, but is it good value for money?

See also: whistle

give someone a bell (British & Australian, informal)

to telephone someone. Give me a bell when you get home so I know you're OK.

See also: give

Hell's bells! (old-fashioned)

something that you say when you are very surprised or annoyed. Hell's bells, the washing machine's overflowing again!

ring a bell

if a phrase or a word, especially a name, rings a bell, you think you have heard it before. Does the name 'Fitzpatrick' ring a bell? No, I'm sorry, that description doesn't ring any bells with me. (often + with)

See also: ring

ring/sound alarm bells

set (the) alarm bells ringing - if something sets alarm bells ringing, it makes you feel worried because it is a sign that there may be a problem. The huge vote for fascist candidates should ring alarm bells (= cause people to worry) across Europe.

See also: alarm, ring, sound

Saved by the bell.

something that you say when a difficult situation is ended suddenly before you have to do or say something that you do not want to. Luckily, my bus arrived before I had time to reply. Saved by the bell.

See also: Save

set (the) alarm bells ringing

if something sets alarm bells ringing, it makes you feel worried because it is a sign that there may be a problem. Symptoms which should set alarm bells ringing are often ignored by doctors.

See also: alarm, ring, set

with bells on

1. if you describe something as a particular thing with bells on, you mean that it has similar qualities to that thing but they are more extreme. This latest series is melodrama with bells on.

2. if you go somewhere or do something with bells on, you do it with a lot of interest and energy. I'll be at the party with bells on.

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ring a bell

to seem familiar. “We live in Walnut Creek.” “I don't know why that rings a bell.”

have a familiar ring (to it)

See also: ring

set off alarm bells

to warn of trouble and the need for action. The report about worldwide climate change should sound alarm bells in every community.

See also: alarm, set

with bells on

with a lot of enthusiasm. “Are you going to the party tonight, Michael?” “I'll be there with bells on.”