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

An instructor led the group through visualization exercises and a sound bath, using singing bowls, bells and gongs. —Mirin Fader, New York Times, 19 Nov. 2025

Furthermore, the sapphire crystal gongs use a square cross-section to maximize contact with the hammers and channel vibrations into distinct, layered modes, yielding a richer and more textured chime than traditional round steel gongs. —Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 19 Nov. 2025

Previous recipients of Camerimage’s Duo Award include Werner Herzog and Peter Zeitlinger, who took the gong in 2023. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 15 Nov. 2025

The concierge staff welcomed us with a smile, walked us over to a large ceremonial gong, and invited us to strike it three times. —Raquel Reichard, Refinery29, 24 Sep. 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