Definition

A horizontal bar or step on a ladder, or a level in a hierarchy or organization.

Example

He climbed up to the third rung of the ladder to reach the roof.

Conversation

I just bought a new ladder for the garden.

Oh nice! Is it tall enough to reach the top rung?

Yeah, it has all the necessary rungs for my needs.

That's great! Just be careful when climbing up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To make a sound by striking a bell or similar object, or to call someone on the phone.

Example

She rung the bell to signal the end of the meeting.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear the phone rung while I was out?

No, I didn’t hear it at all. Was it important?

I think it might have been a friend trying to reach me.

Root Explanation

The word 'rung' originates from Old English 'hrung', meaning a step or a rung of a ladder. It refers specifically to the horizontal support on a ladder that one steps on.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'step' on a ladder — that's what a 'rung' is, a place to put your foot as you climb.

Visually Confused Words