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ding-dong

[ ding-dawng, -dong ]
/ ˈdɪŋˌdɔŋ, -ˌdɒŋ /
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noun
the sound of a bell.
any similar sound of repeated strokes.
Slang. ding-a-ling.
adjective
characterized by or resembling the sound of a bell.
marked by rapid alternation of retaliatory action: a ding-dong struggle.
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Origin of ding-dong

1550–60; gradational compound based on ding, apparently blend of din1 and ring2
Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

How to use ding-dong in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for ding-dong

ding-dong

noun
the sound of a bell or bells, esp two bells tuned a fourth or fifth apart
an imitation or representation of the sound of a bell
  1. a violent exchange of blows or words
  2. (as modifier)a ding-dong battle in the board room
adjective
sounding or ringing repeatedly

Word Origin for ding-dong

C16: of imitative origin; see ding 1
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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