ring a bell

4. PHRASE : V inflects

If you say that something rings a bell, you mean that it reminds you of something, but you cannot remember exactly what it is.[ INFORMAL ]

• The description of one of the lads is definitely familiar. It rings a bell.
  

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]