1
general::
Phrase(s): ring a bell
Fig. [for something] to cause someone to remember something or for it to seem familiar. • I’ve never met John Franklin, but his name rings a bell. • Whenever I see a bee, it rings a bell. I remember when I was stung by one.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
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Arouse an indistinct memory, remind one of something, as in That name rings a bell? I think I've met him. The bell here summons up a memory. [1930s]
American Heritage Idioms