nose ring

American  

noun

1. a ring inserted in the nose of an animal, to facilitate leading it.

2. a ring worn as an ornament in the nose.

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nose ring British  

noun

1. a ring fixed through the nose, as for leading a bull

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Etymology

Origin of nose ring

First recorded in 1780–90

Example Sentences

The young programmer—sporting dreadlocks and a nose ring at the time—was one of Twitter’s co-founders and served as its CEO until 2008, when he was pushed out amid concerns he was distracted by his hobbies.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 3, 2026

Reyes, who has a bee-sized tattoo below his eye and a nose ring, nods respectfully.

From Salon • Nov. 9, 2022

He arrived in the paddock there wearing at least four stacked necklaces, and was later seen with at least three watches and four rings on each hand — along with his earrings and nose ring.

From Seattle Times • May 27, 2022

Karthoum Dembele, a 19-year-old midfielder who wears a nose ring, also said she had to confront her mother to be allowed to play.

From New York Times • Apr. 18, 2022

At Jack’s request Molly has taken out the nose ring and left only two studs in each ear.

From "Orphan Train" by Christina Baker Kline