doorbell

noun

door·​bell ˈdȯr-ˌbel 

: a bell or set of chimes to be rung usually by a push button at an outer door

Examples of doorbell in a Sentence

We rang the doorbell until someone came to let us in.

Recent Examples on the Web

The Morris Law Group and neighboring dental office also do not have doorbells outside the building. — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 25 Aug. 2026

This lineup runs drink to dessert—a big-batch punch, two easy apps, sides with seasonal personality, a showstopping roast, and a cheesecake to brag about—and most of it can be made ahead, so you’re not stuck in the kitchen when the doorbell rings. — Maggie Meyer Glisan, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Aug. 2026

However, later that day, someone showed up at his home and rang the doorbell. — Toria Sheffield, PEOPLE, 15 Aug. 2026

Morning brings the soft knock of a neighbor, friend or relative who knows there is no need for the formality of ringing a doorbell. — ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing doorbell

• doorbell camera
• video doorbell

Rhymes for doorbell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

doorbell

noun

door·​bell -ˌbel 

: a bell, gong, or set of chimes to be rung usually by a push button at an outside door