Definition

A bad smell or stench; also refers to a set of three identical tiles in mahjong.

Example

The pong from the garbage was unbearable.

Conversation

I finally learned how to play mahjong last weekend.

That’s awesome! Did you get a pong during the game?

Yes, I did! It felt great to complete my first pong.

Nice! It's such a satisfying feeling when you make a set.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To have a strong, unpleasant smell.

Example

After the garbage sat out in the sun, it began to pong.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you notice that smell in the kitchen?

Yeah, it really starts to pong after a while.

I guess we should clean it up before it gets worse.

Root Explanation

The word 'pong' originates from the Hindi word 'panga', meaning a strong smell or odor. It is often used in English to describe a strong, unpleasant smell, particularly in reference to something that is musty or foul.

Memory Tip

Think of the Hindi word for a strong smell, 'panga', to remember that 'pong' refers to an unpleasant odor.

Visually Confused Words