Does The Word Clock work offline without internet?
Yes. After the first visit, The Word Clock caches all necessary files using a Service Worker. You can use it in airplane mode, while traveling, or anywhere without an internet connection. The clock reads the time from your device, not from an external server, so it works with full accuracy offline. Your settings — language, font, colors, and size — are also saved locally and do not require a connection.
How do I switch languages on The Word Clock?
The language buttons are in the top bar of the screen. Tap the language you want — Hebrew, English, Spanish, French, Russian, or Arabic — and the display switches instantly, including grammar rules, nikkud, reading direction, and appropriate fonts. Your language choice is remembered for the next visit. You can switch languages at any time without losing your other settings like colors and fonts.
What is the Word Clock E-Ink Frame?
The Word Clock Frame is an upcoming physical product — an elegant frame with an E-Ink (electronic ink) display that shows the time in words on your wall. Unlike regular screens, E-Ink only uses power when the display updates, meaning minimal energy consumption. The display looks like printed paper — visible in direct sunlight, with no glare or backlight. It will support Hebrew and other languages. Sign up at thewordclock.app for launch updates.
Does The Word Clock support Hebrew nikkud (vowels)?
Yes, The Word Clock features full Hebrew nikkud support. When set to Hebrew, the time is displayed with complete vowel marks — for example "שֶׁבַע וָרֶבַע" instead of just "שבע ורבע". The nikkud follows correct Hebrew grammar rules for gender and conjugation, making the display both authentic and educational for Hebrew learners.
Is The Word Clock accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. The Word Clock is designed with accessibility in mind. Text size is fully adjustable, high-contrast color combinations can be chosen, and the interface supports screen readers and keyboard navigation. Dark mode reduces eye strain in dim environments. Displaying time in words rather than numbers helps people with numerical dyslexia. All elements include proper ARIA labels.
How often does The Word Clock update?
The Word Clock checks for updates every minute. Since it rounds time to five-minute intervals (like "ten past seven", "quarter past seven"), the displayed text changes every five minutes. The transition is smooth with no page reload or flicker. The clock runs automatically in the background without any user interaction needed.
Which browsers does The Word Clock support?
The Word Clock works in all modern browsers: Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge, and Chromium-based browsers. It also works on mobile browsers — Safari on iPhone/iPad, Chrome on Android, and even built-in smart TV browsers. The site is built with standard web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and requires no plugins or downloads.
What is the difference between a word clock and a digital clock?
A regular digital clock displays digits like "14:35" which require quick mental processing. A word clock shows time as a natural language sentence, like "twenty-five to three", exactly how you would say it to a friend. The key difference is the experience: a word clock encourages a calmer, more mindful reading of time and adds a typographic, minimalist aesthetic dimension to any room.
Still Have Questions?
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Or explore our blog for deeper dives into word clocks, minimalist design, and the story behind the project.