doorbell

[ dawr-bel, dohr- ]

noun

1. a bell chime, or the like, at a door or connected with a door, rung by persons outside wanting someone inside to open the door.

verb (used without object)

1. to canvass or solicit from door to door, especially for votes or contributions.

Word History and Origins

Origin of doorbell¹

First recorded in 1805–15; door + bell ¹

Example Sentences

"The doorbell went - I was on the phone at the time to a friend - and Andy the farmer was at the door," he said.

From BBC

He was captured on Ring doorbell video hunting for food in trash bins by the homes near the trailhead.

From Los Angeles Times

Rachel Canning was just about to take her son to school when the doorbell rang at her east London home.

From BBC

The son of the victim, Joseph Ahrens, told authorities the doorbell rang at their family home and his mother answered the door to a person dressed as a clown.

From BBC

If your doorbell rings this afternoon and it’s a grinning person with a red rosette and a leaflet, you’ll know what they’re up to.

From BBC

Related Words

• buzzer