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ring the changes. In DICTIOUS you will not only get to know all the dictionary meanings for the word
ring the changes, but we will also tell you about its etymology, its characteristics and you will know how to say
ring the changes in singular and plural. Everything you need to know about the word
ring the changes you have here. The definition of the word
ring the changes will help you to be more precise and correct when speaking or writing your texts. Knowing the definition of
ring the changes, as well as those of other words, enriches your vocabulary and provides you with more and better linguistic resources.
English
Etymology
(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)
Pronunciation
Verb
ring the changes (third-person singular simple present rings the changes, present participle ringing the changes, simple past rang the changes, past participle rung the changes)
- To make patterned sound sequences on bells, starting and ending on the same tone.
- To run through all possible variations.
- (UK) To enliven by varying combinations.
- (slang, UK, 19th century and earlier) To pass counterfeit money.
- (slang, dated) To trick a shopkeeper into giving too much change.
- To take advantage of a change in order to make money.
Quotations
2025 October 18, Phil McNulty, “England 3-1 Italy”, in BBC Sport:Manchester City pair Phil Foden and Kalvin Phillips were given the chance to push their claims for starting places in Southgate's plans as he rang the changes following the friendly against Australia.
Synonyms
Derived terms
References
- “ring the changes”, in OneLook Dictionary Search.
- (trick a shopkeeper into giving too much change): 1903, Chambers's Twentieth Century Dictionary of the English Language