Meaning & use

ping

verb·Everyday

Last updated

To send a brief signal to check whether a computer or network connection is active; more casually, to contact someone quickly, often by message.

See it in a sentence

The technician pinged the server to see if it was still online.

Ping me when you land and I'll come pick you up.

A note on using this word

Originally a networking term for testing a connection, "ping" is now common informal shorthand for sending someone a quick message or reminder.

Words with a similar meaning

messagenotify

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

A short, high-pitched sound, such as a bell or metal being struck.

The elevator let out a soft ping as the doors opened.

Make it your own

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