unring a bell
To reverse the irreversible; to perform the impossible.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“Once you say it, you cannot unring a bell.”
“The lawyer knew that after the jury heard the evidence, it was impossible to unring a bell.”
“Even if the politician issues a formal apology, he cannot unring a bell regarding the damaging remarks he made during the debate.”
- 01
bear away the bell
To be superior in something.
- 02
bell out
To open out into a bell shape.
- 03
bell the cat
To undertake a dangerous action in the service of a group.
- 04
bells and whistles
Extra features added for show rather than function; fancy additions or features.
- 05
lose the bell
To be defeated in a contest.
- 06
pull the other one, it's got bells on
Expresses disbelief.
- 07
ring a bell
To seem at least vaguely familiar.
- 08
ring one's bell
To strike or bump one's own head with a strong blow, especially with concussive force.
Last updated August 10, 2026