ding-dong

American  

[ding-dawng, -dong] / ˈdɪŋˌdɔŋ, -ˌdɒŋ /

noun

1. the sound of a bell.

2. any similar sound of repeated strokes.

3. Slang. ding-a-ling.

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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 British  

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

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adjective

1. sounding or ringing repeatedly

Etymology

Origin of ding-dong

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

Example Sentences

“Well, this ding dong, senator, has risen in the polls,” Cavuto said.

From Salon • Jul. 30, 2024

When I raise the subject of her 2018 wedding, there is a ding dong.

From BBC • Dec. 7, 2023

For the past three years Nest has offered them, the ringtones have disappeared following the holidays, leaving you with the standard ding dong.

From The Verge • Sep. 28, 2021

He both let the dogs out and put the ram in the rama lama ding dong.

From Washington Post • Apr. 30, 2018

M. All�gre took down from word of mouth and communicated to the late Damase Arbaud a Proven�al version, which runs as follows: His scarlet cape the Prior donned, Ding dong, dong ding dong!

From Essays in the Study of Folk-Songs (1886) by Martinengo-Cesaresco, Countess Evelyn