gong
gong Lexical Profile
gong Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A musical percussion instrument consisting of a large metal disk that produces a loud, resonant sound when struck with a mallet.
"The orchestra's percussionist struck the massive gong to mark the dramatic climax of the symphony."
A saucer-shaped bell, typically used to summon people to a meal or to sound an alarm.
"The dinner gong echoed through the halls of the manor, signaling to the guests that the meal was ready."
British A medal or similar decoration awarded for bravery, distinguished service, or achievement.
"The veteran proudly wore his newly awarded gong during the Remembrance Day parade."
• verb
To sound a gong or to produce a resonant sound resembling one.
"The old grandfather clock gonged midnight, echoing through the empty house."
North American To abruptly dismiss or reject someone, originally derived from the practice of striking a gong to stop a poor performance on a talent show.
"The unfortunate contestant was gonged before he could even finish singing the first verse."
• Rhymes for gong
Word Origin & Etymology
From Malay and Javanese 'gong', an imitative (onomatopoeic) word reflecting the deep, ringing sound made by the instrument. First recorded in English in the late 16th century.