Dip: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when you briefly put something in a liquid. It implies a quick action, often for a temporary purpose.

• She dipped the cookie in milk.
• He dipped his toes into the water to test its temperature.

Used when you fully place something into a liquid for a longer duration. This often implies a thorough action.

• The scientist immersed the samples in a solution.
• You need to immerse the fabric in dye for an hour.

Implies fully covering something with liquid, often for some function or purpose. It can sometimes carry a more technical or serious tone.

• The submarine can submerge to a depth of 300 meters.
• Be sure to submerge the dishes completely in the soapy water.

Suggests leaving something in liquid for an extended period to absorb moisture. It often indicates complete saturation.

• She decided to soak the beans overnight.
• His clothes were soaked after walking in the rain.