ding-dong
[ding-dawng, -dong]
- the sound of a bell.
- any similar sound of repeated strokes.
- Slang. ding-a-ling.
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- 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
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018
Examples from the Web for ding-dong
Contemporary Examples
I called it “ding-dong diplomacy”; Governor Richardson wisely pointed out that “basketball diplomacy” is better than none.
Historical Examples
Now we'll see a ding-dong finish, if the Black doesn't show a streak of yellow.
ThoroughbredsW. A. Fraser
Bradbury and Evans are going at it, ding-dong, and are wild with excitement.
The Letters of Charles DickensCharles Dickens
Cal was to stay and guard the camp with Ding-dong for a companion.
The Motor Rangers Through the SierrasMarvin West
Ding-dong, who didn't object to the luxuries of life, sighed.
The Motor Rangers Through the SierrasMarvin West
But Ding-dong, though deliberate in his speech, was quick in action.
The Motor Rangers Through the SierrasMarvin West
ding-dong
- 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
- a violent exchange of blows or words
- (as modifier)a ding-dong battle in the board room
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- sounding or ringing repeatedly
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Word Origin
C16: of imitative origin; see ding 1
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
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