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Ringer - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A ringer is a person or thing that closely resembles another, often used as a substitute or impostor. It can also refer to someone highly skilled in a particular activity.

ringer

/ˈrɪŋər/ /ˈrɪŋə/

Definition:

A person or thing closely resembling another, often used deceptively; a substitute in competitions.

Synonyms:

double, impostor, substitute, lookalike

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

original, genuine

Common Collocations:

dead ringer, ring the bell, ringer for someone

Derivatives:

ringers, ringing

Usage Tips:

Use "ringer" to describe someone who looks identical to another or a substitute in sports or contests.

Common Phrases:

dead ringer for, ring the bell, bring in a ringer

Etymology:

Originated from horse racing slang (19th century), referring to a horse fraudulently substituted for another.

Examples:

  • 1. She’s a dead ringer for her twin sister.
  • 2. The team brought in a ringer to win the match.
  • 3. He’s such a good actor; he’s a ringer for the role.
  • 4. The contest was unfair because they used a ringer.

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