Gonged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽถ
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gonged

[ษกษ’ล‹d ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

past tense

The term 'gonged' refers to the action of striking or hitting a gong, resulting in a resonant sound. It is often used in contexts such as ceremonies, celebrations, or as a signal for the start or end of an event. The sound produced by a gong can carry over long distances, making it an effective means of communication. It can also denote receiving a penalty or being punished in casual slang.

Synonyms

hit, sounded, struck.

Examples of usage

  • The event began when the bell was gonged.
  • They gonged the large instrument to signify the start of the festival.
  • He was gonged for being late to the meeting.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Chinese culture, gongs are often used in celebrations and ceremonies, signifying good luck and fortune.
  • Many martial arts schools use gongs to mark the beginning or end of classes, creating a ceremonial atmosphere.
  • In Western cultures, large gongs are commonly found in orchestras, adding dramatic sound effects to performances.

Science and Sound

  • The sound produced by a gong is a complex blend of frequencies, creating a rich and resonant tone.
  • Gongs can be made from various metals, each influencing the quality and duration of the sound when struck.
  • Acoustic properties of gongs have drawn the interest of scientists studying sound waves and vibrations.

Origin of 'gonged'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'gong' comes from the Malay word 'gong,' which refers to the same large instrument.
  • Gongs have been used for centuries in various cultures, especially in Southeast Asia, for communication and rituals.
  • The verb form 'gonged' indicates the action of striking the gong, emphasizing the noise it makes.

The word 'gong' originates from the Malay 'gunga', which refers to a large, ornamental bell or cymbal. The use of gongs is deeply rooted in various cultures across Asia, particularly in Indonesia and China, where they are featured in traditional music and ceremonies. As the term evolved, the past tense 'gonged' emerged to describe the act of striking this instrument. In contemporary usage, 'gong' and its derivatives also entered modern slang, where 'gonged' can imply being penalized or negatively judged. This shift reflects the adaptability of language and how cultural artifacts like musical instruments can influence vocabulary.