Ping
/pɪŋ/noun
A short, sharp sound; also, to send a brief signal or message.
Did you know?The English word is imitative, but its modern power exploded in the digital age, where a “ping” became a ritualized signal for presence, reply, and instant summonability.
Etymological Timeline
Middle English
English
ping
“An imitative word for a sharp, high-pitched sound”
Early Modern English
English
ping
“To make or emit a sharp ringing sound”
20th Century
English
ping
“To send a brief signal, especially to check whether a connection is alive”
Modern English
English
ping
“A short sound or a quick digital signal/message”