Bong

/bɔːŋ/ noun

Definition

A deep, resonant sound like a large bell; also a water pipe used for smoking.

Etymology

From Javanese 'bong' or Malaysian, entering English in the 20th century. The onomatopoeia for the sound likely came first, with the device named for the sound it makes.

Kelly Says

The word 'bong' is onomatopoeia—it literally imitates the deep, hollow sound it makes—and this type of word-sound matching appears in languages worldwide, suggesting our brains are wired to connect sounds with meaning!

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