Dived: meaning, definitions and examples
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dived
[ daɪvd ]
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.
Etymology
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.