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

The clang of a political gong is deafening. —Philip Elliott, Time, 10 Sep. 2025

Even rarer these days is a repeater that does not show its gongs and hammers on the dial side. —Carol Besler, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

In addition to his trio of Primetime Emmys, Obama's already substantial metaphorical trophy shelf includes two Children's and Family Emmy gongs, two Grammy awards, and a Nobel Peace Prize. —Daniel Orton, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 Sep. 2025

Featuring simple Tai Chi forms and qi gong (energy work). —Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Aug. 2025

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
• mong
• pong
• prong
• rong
• song
• strong
• thong

Kids Definition

gong

noun

ˈgäŋ 

ˈgȯŋ

1

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

2

: a flat saucer-shaped bell