Grelot

/ɡrəˈloʊ/ noun

Definition

A small bell or jingle bell, particularly one attached to garments, harnesses, or decorative items.

Etymology

From Middle French 'grelot,' possibly from Old French 'grèle' meaning slender or thin, alluding to the thin, tinny sound of small bells.

Kelly Says

Court jesters and Renaissance performers jingled grelots to announce themselves—these tiny bells became symbols of foolishness and merriment, which is why they still adorn jester costumes today.

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