ding-dong

American  

[ding-dawng, -dong] / ˈdɪŋˌdɔŋ, -ˌdɒŋ /

noun

1. the sound of a bell.

2. any similar sound of repeated strokes.

3. Slang.  ding-a-ling.

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adjective

1. characterized by or resembling the sound of a bell.

2. marked by rapid alternation of retaliatory action.

   a ding-dong struggle.

ding-dong British  

noun

1. the sound of a bell or bells, esp two bells tuned a fourth or fifth apart

2. an imitation or representation of the sound of a bell

3. 1. a violent exchange of blows or words

   2. ( as modifier )

      a ding-dong battle in the board room

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adjective

1. sounding or ringing repeatedly

Etymology

Origin of ding-dong

1550–60; gradational compound based on ding, apparently blend of din ¹ and ring ²

Example Sentences

England's defence conceded five tries, as they were drawn into ding-dong high-tempo game that suited the opposition and the half-time break couldn't halt.

From BBC

Two of the best teams in the NFL just happen to be division rivals who served up a beauty with Detroit kicker Jake Bates settling a ding-dong battle 31-29 with his last-minute field goal.

From BBC

The fear is essentially anyone who was not born with one functioning ding-dong with which to rule the world, planting seeds hither and yon.

From Salon

Whatever happens, the Ashes have already delivered, captivating the audience with a ding-dong opening battle between the best of enemies.

From BBC

I was the kid in the neighborhood running around with no socks on, hopping over fences, playing tag, playing ding-dong ditch, like kids in the old days.

From Seattle Times