IdiomDaily LifeEnglish

ring a bell

Meaning: To stir something in one's memory; to cause someone to remember something.

Example: “The address rings a bell, but I can't place it.”

Origin: For centuries bells have been rung to call people's attention or remind them of events, such as bells ringing to announce the start of town meetings, doorbells, and even the ringing of telephone `bells.'

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