ping

6 synonyms for ping, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.

Noun — A short, high-pitched sound, or (in computing) a small network signal used to check if a device is reachable.

Synonyms

Everyday swaps

Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.

message knock pink

Less common

Still standard English, but they carry more weight.

ding notify

Rare, literary or technical

Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.

blip

Synonyms by Meaning

1. noun

A short, high-pitched sound, or (in computing) a small network signal used to check if a device is reachable.

“The elevator gave a soft ping as it reached the floor.”

blip ding message notify

2. verb

To send a brief message to someone, often to check in or get their attention.

“Ping me when you land at the airport.”

knock pink

How to use ping

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

ping someone send a ping network ping

Etymology

Originally imitative of a short, sharp sound; the computing sense comes from the ping network utility, itself named for sonar pings.

Full origin of ping →

Frequently asked questions

What does “ping” mean?

The word “ping” means a short, high-pitched sound, or (in computing) a small network signal used to check if a device is reachable. In plain terms, a short, sharp sound or signal — or, informally, a quick message sent to someone.

How do you pronounce “ping”?

“Ping” is pronounced pihng (/pɪŋ/ in IPA).

How do you use “ping” in a sentence?

Here is “ping” used in a sentence: “The elevator gave a soft ping as it reached the floor.”

What part of speech is “ping”?

Depending on how it is used, “ping” can be a noun and a verb.

Is “ping” a common word?

“Ping” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “ping” have?

“Ping” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a short, high-pitched sound, or (in computing) a small network signal used to check if a device is reachable.

What does "ping" mean in computing?

In computing, a ping is a small network signal sent to another device to check whether it is reachable and how quickly it responds. It's commonly used to test internet connections or diagnose network problems.

What does it mean to "ping" someone informally?

To ping someone informally means to send them a brief message, such as a text or chat notification, often just to check in or get their attention. It implies a quick, low-effort contact rather than a lengthy conversation.

Is "ping" appropriate in formal writing?

Using ping to mean sending a message is informal and works well in casual emails or workplace chat, but it's generally avoided in formal documents or professional correspondence. In formal contexts, "contact," "notify," or "message" are safer choices.

People also searched

message pink knock notify ding blip

Nearby words

← Back to the full definition of ping