doorbell

American  

[dawr-bel, dohr-] / ˈdɔrˌbɛl, ˈdoʊr- /

noun

doorbells plural

1. a bell chime, or the like, at a door or connected with a door, rung by persons outside wanting someone inside to open the door.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to canvass or solicit from door to door, especially for votes or contributions.

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• doorbells
  plural

Etymology

Origin of doorbell

First recorded in 1805–15; door + bell ¹

Explanation

A doorbell is a signal that a visitor can use to let you know they're at your door. Most doorbells have a small button that rings a bell inside the house when it's pushed. Your doorbell might emit a long chiming ring, even playing part of a song, or it may make a harsh buzzing sound. Doorbells tend to be louder than a simple knock on the door, and often they can be heard throughout a house or apartment. The very first doorbells were developed by the Scottish inventor William Murdock in the early 19th century.

Example Sentences

Doorbell footage captured the moment Carol opened the door to Clifford, and greeted him with friendly advice.

From BBC • Jun. 26, 2025

Doorbell camera footage shows Rachel telling the bailiff the fines were being challenged and showing him her completed online forms.

From BBC • Nov. 5, 2024

Doorbell cameras from numerous homes across the area recorded the boom and flash, including the one owned by Westfield, Indiana resident Mark Zieles.

From Washington Times • Apr. 22, 2023

Doorbell videos posted online by Fatima Suarez received millions of views, along with sympathy for her family that’s of Mexican descent.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 15, 2023

Doorbell security video obtained by AP shows the standoff ended with Aldrich walking out of the home, hands up in surrender.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2022

Related Words

• buzzer