Dived Meaning: Definition and Examples
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dived
[daɪvd ]
Definition
past tense
Dived is the simple past tense of dive, which means to jump or plunge into water with one's arms and legs extended. This action typically occurs from a height, such as a diving board or the edge of a pool. It can also refer to descending quickly into a particular environment, often used in contexts like scuba diving. Dived can indicate both a recreational activity and a serious exploration of underwater environments.
Synonyms
descended, jumped, leapt, plunged.
Examples of usage
- She dived into the pool on a hot summer day.
- He dived from the boat to catch the fish.
- The athlete dived gracefully into the water.
- They dived deep into the ocean to explore the coral reefs.
Interesting Facts
Sports
- Competitive diving is an Olympic sport where athletes perform acrobatics while entering the water.
- Scuba diving combines underwater exploration with equipment that allows divers to breathe, revealing stunning marine life.
Cultural References
- In literature and films, diving often symbolizes taking a leap into the unknown or facing fears.
- The phrase 'dive into a book' suggests immersing oneself completely in reading, highlighting its enchanting nature.
Psychology
- Diving into water can create feelings of freedom and exhilaration, often linked to stress relief.
- Research shows that water activities can improve mood and promote relaxation, making people feel more connected to nature.
Marine Biology
- Many marine creatures, such as whales and sharks, rely on the act of diving to hunt for food.
- Coral reefs, often explored by divers, provide habitats for thousands of species, showcasing biodiversity.
Origin of 'dived'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'dove' is the past tense of dive, coming from Middle English 'dive' and Old English 'difan'.
- In modern English, both 'dived' and 'dove' can be used, though 'dived' is preferred in British English.
The word 'dive' originates from the Old English term 'difian,' which means 'to dip.' Its earliest known usage can be traced back to the 14th century. Over the years, the term evolved through various Middle English forms, such as 'diven' and 'divide,' before settling into its modern form. The adaptation of 'dive' in English reflected not only the physical act of plunging into water but also metaphorical uses, such as diving into tasks or situations. By the 19th century, 'dive' had gained popularity in recreational contexts, particularly associated with swimming and diving competitions. The transformation into 'dived' as the past tense became standard in American English, though British English sometimes prefers the form 'dove.' This distinction highlights regional variations in the English language's evolution.