Definitions

• Sound: A bong refers to a deep, resonant sound, similar to that produced by a large bell or gong. This usage is often found in contexts describing the tolling of church bells or similar auditory phenomena.
• Smoking Device: In the context of smoking, a bong is a type of water pipe used for inhaling smoke from substances such as marijuana. It typically consists of a bowl, stem, and a water chamber that cools and filters the smoke before it is inhaled.

Historical Context

The concept of using water pipes for smoking has been around for centuries in various cultures, including among the Hmong in Laos and Thailand. American soldiers during the Vietnam War encountered these devices and brought the practice back to the U.S., leading to the popularization of the term "bong" in Western culture.

Usage

The word "bong" can be used as both a noun and a verb:

• Noun: Referring to either the sound or the smoking device.
• Verb: To produce a deep ringing sound (e.g., "The bell bonged at midnight") or informally, to use a bong for smoking.