1. Bell: This is the most common meaning of "cloche." It can refer to any kind of bell, from a church bell to a small handbell.
2. Bell-shaped: "Cloche" can also be used to describe something that is shaped like a bell. For example, a "cloche hat" is a hat shaped like a bell.
3. Glass cover: This is a more specialized meaning of "cloche." It refers to a glass cover that is used to protect plants or food from the elements.
4. Cover (figuratively): In some contexts, "cloche" can be used figuratively to mean "cover" or "protection." For example, someone might say that a city is "under a cloche" during a wartime blackout.
Here are some examples of how "cloche" is used in French:
* La cloche de l'église: The church bell
* Un chapeau cloche: A cloche hat
* Une cloche à fromage: A cheese cloche
* Mettre la ville sous cloche: To put the city under cover (figuratively)
The meaning of "cloche" will usually be clear from the context. If you are unsure, it is always best to look it up in a dictionary.