# bellows

/ˈbɛɫoʊz/ (US) · /bˈɛləʊz/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bellows
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a tool that you squeeze to blow air into a fire to make it burn better. It is also a flexible, folding part of an old camera that moves the lens back and forth.

For teachers: a device with flexible sides that can be compressed and expanded to produce a strong current of air. In photography, refers to the pleated, light-tight folding part connecting the lens to the camera body, allowing for focal adjustment.

## Examples

- He used the bellows to get the fire started.
- The photographer extended the leather bellows to focus on the small flower for a macro shot.
- Traditional blacksmiths relied on large hand-operated bellows to maintain the high temperatures necessary for forging iron into tools.

## Usage notes

- Often used with 'a pair of' when referring to the tool for air; takes plural verb agreement.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.