ding-a-ling

noun

Synonyms of ding-a-lingnext

Examples of ding-a-ling in a Sentence

some ding-a-ling set off the fire alarm by burning paper in a wastebasket
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Why portray Dorothy as a doe-eyed ding-a-ling; as not just naive but dumb? Lili Anolik, Vanity Fair, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

reduplication of ding entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ding-a-ling was circa 1935

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Cite this Entry

“Ding-a-ling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ding-a-ling. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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