Learn about the difference between the homophones: tole and toll

Definitions

tole

Tole is a noun that refers to enameled or lacquered metalware, usually decorated with brightly colored floral designs.

Example

The tole tray was a beautiful addition to the dining table.

Example

She collects antique tole pieces.

toll

Toll is a noun that refers to a fee paid for using a particular road, bridge or highway. It can also refer to the sound of a bell being struck, especially a funeral bell.

Example

The toll for crossing the bridge is $5.

Example

The church bells tolled mournfully in the distance.

Tips To Remember the Differences

Here are a few tips to easily distinguish the difference between these words while keeping in mind the description we've provided:

To remember the difference between these two words, think of the letter 'L' in toll as standing for 'a price to pay', while the letter 'E' in tole stands for 'enameled metalware'.