ringing
UK: ˈrɪŋɪŋ | US: ˈrɪŋɪŋ
n. 1. The act or sound of making a clear, resonant sound, like that of a bell.
adj. 2. Having a clear, resonant quality (e.g., a ringing voice).
n. 3. A sensation of a continuous sound in the ears (e.g., tinnitus).
The word "ringing" derives from the Old English "hringan," meaning "to make a resonant sound," likely imitative of the sound itself. The suffix "-ing" was added to form the present participle or gerund, turning the verb into a noun or adjective. Over time, "ringing" evolved to describe both the action of producing a resonant sound and the quality of such sounds (e.g., a "ringing endorsement"). The connection to auditory sensations (e.g., tinnitus) emerged later, metaphorically extending the original meaning.
The ringing of the church bells echoed through the village.
Her speech ended with a ringing call to action.
He woke up with a persistent ringing in his ears.
The phone’s ringing interrupted their conversation.
The singer’s voice had a clear, ringing tone.