Plunge Meaning and Definition
Plunge
Pronunciation
/plʌnʒ/
Part of Speech
Noun or Verb
Definition
A sudden and often violent downward movement or descent, especially in a particular direction or into a particular situation.
Examples
- The pilot was forced to make a sharp plunge into the ocean to avoid the crash.
- The market plunged into a recession due to economic instability.
Synonyms
- Dive
- Fall
- Sink
Etymology
The word “Plunge” originated from the Old English word “plunan”, meaning “to strike or pierce”. It has been used in various forms, such as “plungeo” in Middle English, to describe a sudden and violent movement or descent.
Usage Notes
When used as a noun, “Plunge” typically refers to a sudden and violent movement, while as a verb, it means to descend suddenly or violently. Be mindful of the context in which the word is used to avoid confusion.
Cultural References
The word “Plunge” has been used in various cultural references, such as in the idiom “take the plunge” meaning to make a bold and daring decision, or in the phrase “plunge into the unknown” to describe a situation where one must face uncertainty with courage.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Take the plunge
- Plunge into the unknown
- Plunged into darkness
Related Words or Phrases
- Drop
- Fall
- Sink
- Dive
Collocations
- plunge into the fray
- plunge into the unknown
- plunge ahead
Frequency of Use
The word “Plunge” is commonly used in formal and informal contexts, including literature, media, and everyday conversations.
Common Misspellings
Gerbreah, Pungle, Plunger, Plunjee