gong

noun

ˈgäŋ 

ˈgȯŋ

1

: a disk-shaped percussion instrument that produces a resounding tone when struck with a usually padded hammer

2

a

: a saucer-shaped bell (as in a fire alarm) that is struck by a mechanical hammer

b

: a wire rod wound in a flat spiral for sounding the time or chime or alarm (as in a clock)

3

British : medal

gong intransitive verb

Examples of gong in a Sentence

They sounded a gong to summon us to dinner.

Recent Examples on the Web

Wellbeing Butlers are at your beck and call to arrange reiki, gratifyingly strong massages in open air, cleansing Balinese ceremonies at the resort temple, or sunrise qi gong on the practically private sand. — Kathryn Romeyn, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Sep. 2026

Previously the Cartier Watchmaking Prize for Talents of Tomorrow, the award founded in 1995 will now be known as the Cartier Talents of Tomorrow Prize and include a gong for jewelers. — Lily Templeton, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026

Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote tapped the opening gong this morning on the floor of the Lagos exchange to open Africa’s largest initial public offer. — Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 14 Sep. 2026

The minute repeater function showcases Jaeger’s patented innovations for the function, including cathedral crystal gongs, trébuchet hammers and a silent governor. — Carol Besler, Robb Report, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Malay & Javanese, of imitative origin

First Known Use

circa 1590, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for gong

• bhang
• bong
• dong
• hmong
• jong
• longue
• mong
• pong
• prong
• rong
• song
• strong

Kids Definition

gong

noun

ˈgäŋ 

ˈgȯŋ

1

: a metallic disk that makes a deep ringing sound when struck

2

: a flat saucer-shaped bell