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.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.