ding-dong

[ ding-dawng, -dong ]

noun

1. the sound of a bell.
2. any similar sound of repeated strokes.
3. Slang. ding-a-ling.

adjective

1. characterized by or resembling the sound of a bell.
2. marked by rapid alternation of retaliatory action:

   a ding-dong struggle.

ding-dong

noun

1. the sound of a bell or bells, esp two bells tuned a fourth or fifth apart
2. an imitation or representation of the sound of a bell
3. 1. a violent exchange of blows or words
   2. ( as modifier )

      a ding-dong battle in the board room

adjective

1. sounding or ringing repeatedly

Word History and Origins

Origin of ding-dong¹

1550–60; gradational compound based on ding, apparently blend of din ¹ and ring ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of ding-dong¹

C16: of imitative origin; see ding ¹

Example Sentences

I called it “ding-dong diplomacy”; Governor Richardson wisely pointed out that “basketball diplomacy” is better than none.

From The Daily Beast

The Official Charts Company described Ding Dong The Witch Is Dead as "one of the most controversial chart contenders of all time".

From The Daily Beast

No tedious ding-dong daily practice—just 20 brief, entertaining lessons, easily mastered.

From Project Gutenberg

Think of that: cradled innocence and angels' dreams and the whole of the hymn just before ding-dong-bang on noses and jaws!

From Project Gutenberg

"V-v-v-variety is the s-s-spice——" sputtered our old friend William, otherwise Ding-dong Bell.

From Project Gutenberg

The floor of the cave sloped steeply toward the rear, and when Ding-dong struck it he did not stop.

From Project Gutenberg

It mingled with a shout of alarm from Ding-dong, who had now stopped rolling, but was not yet on his feet.

From Project Gutenberg