Rings a Bell: Origin and Meaning

Something that sounds familiar to you or causes you to remember something or someone (usually when you cannot remember the exact details).

Before most people had watches or clocks, bells were used as a signal to alert people of events, for example the start of church or the start of school. Someone would ring a bell to remind people of something taking place. Therefore, if someone asks you if a name “rings a bell”, they are asking if the name reminds you of anything, in the same way that hearing a bell used to remind people of something.

“The name of the restaurant rings a bell but I’m not sure if I’ve actually been there. Someone may have told me about it.”

“Does the name Peter Johnson ring a bell? I’m sure we’ve met him but I can’t remember where.”

James: “Are you free on June 6th? Some people are coming to our house for dinner and we’d love if you and Anna could come.”
Martin: “Thanks James, that sounds great. The date rings a bell though but I can’t remember why. I’ll check with Anna later and let you know.”

You can also use the opposite:
“Sorry, but that name really doesn’t ring a bell. I don’t think I’ve met him before.”