bang

Everyday

1. A bang is a sudden very loud noise, like an explosion or a door slamming. tree →
2. To bang is to hit something hard, often making a loud noise. tree →
3. To bang a part of your body is to hit it by accident. tree →
4. Bangs (American) are hair cut short and straight across the forehead (British: a fringe). tree →
5. Bang (informal) means exactly: bang on time. tree →

In the lessons

In science, a bang is sound made by sudden vibrations in the air; the Big Bang is the scientists' name for how the universe began. In safety, if you bang your head, tell an adult. In stories, a bang is a dramatic sound. Phrases: with a bang, bang on the door, bang your head, go off with a bang (be very successful), the Big Bang, bang on.

Examples

• The door shut with a loud bang. tree →
• Someone was banging on the door. tree →
• I banged my knee on the table. tree →
• The fireworks went off with a bang. tree →
• Scientists think the universe began with the Big Bang. tree →
• She cut her bangs too short. tree →
• You're bang on time! tree →
• “Then I refuse,” he cried, banging the barrel in front of Hook. tree →

Note

Past form banged. "Bangs" for hair is American; British say "fringe". Fireworks and bangers are dangerous and only for adults.