doorbell

noun

door·​bell ˈdȯr-ˌbel How to pronounce doorbell (audio)
: a bell or set of chimes to be rung usually by a push button at an outer door

Examples of doorbell in a Sentence

We rang the doorbell until someone came to let us in.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Morning brings the soft knock of a neighbor, friend or relative who knows there is no need for the formality of ringing a doorbell. — ABC News, 12 Aug. 2026 According to the homeowners, the situation began in April when Brown allegedly rang the doorbell, with subsequent visits becoming increasingly destructive. — Abby Dodge, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026 Despite those worries, cameras in doorbells, vehicles and buildings continue to multiply. — Ethan Baron, Mercury News, 7 Aug. 2026 Many homeowners already run their own doorbell and rooftop cameras. — Rachel Royster, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for doorbell

Word History

First Known Use

1807, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of doorbell was in 1807

Phrases Containing doorbell

Rhymes for doorbell

See All Rhymes for doorbell

Browse Nearby Words

door bed
doorbell
doorbell camera
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Doorbell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/doorbell. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

doorbell

noun
door·​bell -ˌbel How to pronounce doorbell (audio)
: a bell, gong, or set of chimes to be rung usually by a push button at an outside door

More from Merriam-Webster on doorbell

Nglish: Translation of doorbell for Spanish Speakers

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