Gong: meaning, definitions and examples

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gong

[ɡɒŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

musical instrument

A gong is a large metal disc with a turned rim, giving a resonant note when struck with a soft hammer. It is often used in Asian music and in orchestras for special effects.

Synonyms

cymbal, percussion, tam-tam.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gong	A gong is generally used in a ceremonial or traditional context, often to signal the start or end of an event or performance. The monk struck the gong to mark the beginning of the meditation session
tam-tam	A tam-tam is a type of large, flat gong used in orchestral and theatrical music for dramatic and impactful sound effects. The tam-tam added a spooky atmosphere to the horror movie's soundtrack
cymbal	Cymbals are typically used in a musical context, especially within bands or orchestras to provide rhythm and accent. The drummer hit the cymbal to emphasize the climax of the song
percussion	Percussion refers to a broader category of musical instruments that are played by striking or shaking, including drums, cymbals, and other rhythm instruments. She plays percussion in the school band, rotating between the drums and the tambourine

Examples of usage

The sound of the gong reverberated through the concert hall.
She struck the gong gently to produce a soft, melodious sound.
The gong added a dramatic touch to the performance.
The gong is an essential part of traditional Chinese music.
His favorite instrument to play is the gong.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to make a loud noise

To gong means to make a loud, resonant sound, like the striking of a gong.

Synonyms

chime, clang, peal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
gong	A gong is often used in ceremonies, rituals, or performances. It produces a deep, resonant sound when struck and is common in various cultures as a signal or musical instrument. The monk struck the gong to begin the ceremony. The loud gong echoed through the hall, signaling the end of the performance.
clang	Clang refers to a loud, harsh noise made by striking metal objects together. It often has a negative connotation and can suggest something jarring or alarming. The clang of the metal gate closing made everyone in the room jump. I heard the clang of pots and pans from the kitchen as the chef prepared the meal.
peal	Peal is used to describe a loud, ringing sound like that of a bell, often associated with celebrations or warnings. It suggests multiple ringing notes in succession. The peal of church bells signaled the start of the wedding ceremony. A loud peal of laughter erupted from the children playing in the park.
chime	Chimes are typically used to produce soothing or melodic sounds, such as in wind chimes, doorbells, or clock towers. They often create a sense of peace or joy. The chimes of the clock tower could be heard throughout the village. She hung wind chimes on the porch, and their gentle music filled the air.

Examples of usage

The clock gonged twelve times, signaling midnight.
The church bells gonged in the distance.
The alarm gonged loudly, waking everyone up.
He gonged the metal pot with a wooden spoon.
She gonged the bell to announce the start of the ceremony.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

Gongs originated in Southeast Asia over 2,500 years ago, primarily in the cultures of Indonesia and China.
The word 'gong' comes from a Malay word meaning 'to strike or hit'.
In ancient times, gongs were used to send signals during battles or communicate messages over long distances.

Cultural Significance

In traditional Chinese culture, gongs are often used in ceremonies and celebrations to ward off evil spirits.
Gongs feature prominently in Balinese and Javanese gamelan music, contributing rich, resonant sounds to performances.
In modern film and theater, the sound of a gong is frequently employed to create dramatic effects or signify changes in scenes.

Scientific Aspects

The deep sound produced by gongs is due to their large surface area, allowing them to vibrate more slowly compared to smaller instruments.
Sound waves from a gong can travel long distances, making it effective for signaling purposes.
Gongs can be made from various metals, with bronze being the most common, which affects their sound quality and resonance.

Pop Culture

Gongs have been featured in numerous movies, often used in scenes set in Asia or to evoke a sense of mysticism.
In the realm of music, the gong has been used by famous artists, including jazz musicians and rock bands, to enhance their compositions.
TV shows and game shows have often employed gongs as a comedic or dramatic prop, adding to their playful associations.

Art

Some artists create visual works using gongs, incorporating them into installations that explore sound as an art form.
Gong sculptures can be found in various public spaces, serving as both artistic expressions and interactive sound installations.
The craftsmanship involved in making a gong is considered an art, often passed down through generations in traditional metalwork practices.

Translations

Translations of the word "gong" in other languages:

🇵🇹 gong

🇮🇳 गोंग

🇩🇪 Gong

🇮🇩 gong

🇺🇦 гонг

🇵🇱 gong

🇯🇵 ゴング (gongu)

🇫🇷 gong

🇪🇸 gong

🇹🇷 gong

🇰🇷 공 (gong)

🇸🇦 جنك (jang)

🇨🇿 gong

🇸🇰 gong

🇨🇳 锣 (luó)

🇸🇮 gong

🇮🇸 gong

🇰🇿 гонг

🇬🇪 გონგი (gongi)

🇦🇿 qong

🇲🇽 gong

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,514, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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20511 digression
20512 ole
20513 sag
20514 gong
20515 polarisation
20516 falcon
20517 principality
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