Английский Этимологический словарь - ring (n.)

- O.E. hring "circular band," from P.Gmc. *khrengaz. Meaning "place for prize fight and wrestling bouts" is from the space in a circle of bystanders in which such contests were once held. Meaning "combination of interested persons" is from 1829. The verb meaning "to make a circle around" is O.E. ymbhringan. Tree ring is from 1671; fairy ring is from 1626. Ringworm is late M.E. Ringleader is first recorded 1503, probably from a medieval metaphor from dancing. Ringlet is attested from 1555; of hair, since 1667.