Ring: meaning, definitions and examples

Worn on a finger as jewelry. It can also refer to a circular mark or pattern, or a group of people involved in a joint effort, often surreptitious.

• She received a beautiful engagement ring
• | There was a ring of coffee stain on the table
• | The police uncovered a drug ring

Often refers to a strip of material forming a loop, a group of musicians playing together, or a group of people with a common interest or purpose.

• He wore a leather band on his wrist
• | They formed a rock band in high school
• | A band of volunteers helped clean the park

Describes a round shape, or a group of people or things arranged in a circular formation. It can also indicate a social group.

• Draw a circle on the paper
• | They sat in a circle around the campfire
• | He's part of an exclusive social circle

Usually refers to a circular band or ring used in sports or play, such as in basketball, or as a part of a toy.

• She shot the basketball through the hoop
• | The children played with hula hoops in the backyard

Commonly used when referring to the sound produced by bells, telephones, or alarms in everyday situations.

• I heard the phone ring
• The church bell rings every hour

Usually refers to more melodic or musical bell sounds, often from smaller bells or clocks. It can also imply harmony or agreement.

• The clock chimed three times
• She loved the gentle chime of the wind chimes

Used to describe a loud, harsh metallic sound, often with a negative connotation.

• The metal gate clanged shut behind him
• There was a loud clang as the pot hit the floor

Refers to a loud, resonant, and usually prolonged sound of bells, often used in contexts like celebrations or signaling the beginning of something significant.

• A peal of laughter rang through the house
• The church bells pealed to celebrate the wedding

Used informally to mean calling someone on the phone, often in British English.

• I'll give you a ring tomorrow.
• Ring me when you get home.

A general term used to describe contacting someone via telephone, appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.

• I'll call you later to discuss the details.
• Can you call the office and let them know?

Refers specifically to the action of entering a phone number, often used when describing the physical act of pressing the numbers.

• I need to dial the number every time I call him.
• She accidentally dialed the wrong number.

Informal way to describe calling someone, often used more in spoken than written language.

• Can you phone Mom and ask her to bring the gift?
• I'll phone you when I arrive.