Ringing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ringing
[ˈrɪŋɪŋ ]
Definitions
sound
The sound of a bell or telephone ringing.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ringing |
Used to describe a continuous or repeated sound, typically associated with telephones, alarms, or bells.
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| chiming |
Often used to describe the melodious, harmonious sound of a clock or small bells. It gives a pleasant and musical impression.
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| clang |
Associated with a loud, harsh, and resonant sound, typically metal hitting metal. Often has a negative or startling connotation.
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| jingle |
Refers to a light, catchy, and tinkling sound, often produced by small bells or metal objects. Commonly used for festive or commercial contexts.
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Examples of usage
- I heard the ringing of the church bells.
- The ringing of the phone woke me up from my nap.
telephone
To make a sound like a bell or telephone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ringing |
Used when describing the sound a phone or bell makes, especially when it is continuous.
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| chime |
Used to describe the pleasant sound made by bells, especially in a musical or rhythmic context.
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| sound |
A general term used to describe anything that can be heard.
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| buzz |
Used to describe a low, continuous humming sound, often made by electronic devices or insects.
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Examples of usage
- I tried calling her, but the phone just kept ringing.
- The alarm clock started ringing at 6 AM.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Music
- In music, 'ringing' can describe a bright, sustained sound often produced by certain instruments, like bells or chimes.
- The term can also refer to a technique in string playing where the notes resonate, creating a lovely echo-like effect.
Psychology
- Ringing sounds can trigger memories and emotions; for many, hearing a phone ring evokes feelings of anticipation or anxiety.
- Studies show that constant ringing can lead to stress, often requiring individuals to manage their environment to maintain calm.
Technology
- Modern smartphones use various 'ringing' tones, allowing users to customize alerts to their preferences or music taste.
- The evolution of 'ringing' tones has shifted from simple beeps to complex melodies, reflecting cultural trends in communication.
Cultural References
- Ringing has appeared in folklore, such as tales where magical bells summon spirits or mark significant events.
- In literature, ringing sounds often symbolize crucial plot points, alerting characters to impending change or danger.
Origin of 'ringing'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'ringing' comes from the Old English 'rinnan', which means to 'make a sound'.
- As languages evolved, it took on the specific meaning related to bells and other loud noises during the 15th century.
The word 'ringing' originates from the Old English word 'hringan', which meant 'to sound loud'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass the specific sounds made by bells and telephones. The concept of ringing has been associated with communication, alerting, and celebration throughout history, making it a versatile word with various meanings and contexts.
See also: ring, ringleader, ringmaster.