from
The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (8 July 2008)
visible bell
vbell
visual bell
<communications> (Or "visual bell") A program option (whether
in a terminal program, {termcap} setting, or as a
{stand-alone} program) which outputs the {bell} {character
code} as a visual signal (e.g., a flashing status bar or menu
bar).
Generally intended for deaf or hearing-disabled users who
couldn't hear the normal auditory beep; also widely used by
users who simply don't want their machines {feep}ing at them
or disturbing other users.
[Implementations?]
(1997-04-07)