Ding-Dong
/ˈdɪŋ ˌdɒŋ/noun
A phrase imitating the alternating sound of a bell, also used for a doorbell chime or a foolish person.
Did you know?Unlike words inherited from a single ancient root, “ding-dong” is sound symbolism: its meaning imitates the acoustic pattern of a struck bell.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
ding
“An imitative word for the sound of a blow or a ringing bell.”
Late Middle English
English
dong
“An imitative word representing a deep or resonant ringing sound.”
16th Century
English
ding-dong
“A reduplicated expression imitating the alternating sound of a bell.”
17th Century
English
ding-dong
“A bell’s repeated ringing; also used figuratively for repetitive sound.”
Modern English
English
ding-dong
“A doorbell chime, bell sound, or informal term for a foolish person.”