Diving Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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diving

[ˈdaɪvɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

underwater exploration

Diving is the sport or activity of swimming or exploring underwater, typically using special equipment such as a mask, snorkel, fins, and a breathing apparatus. It can also refer to the action of plunging headfirst into water.

Synonyms

plunging, submerging, swimming.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
diving

When entering water headfirst, often from a diving board or high platform, as a sport or recreational activity.

  • She is amazing at diving from the high board.
  • Diving into the pool on a hot day is so refreshing.
swimming

The act of moving through water by using arms and legs. It's often used when talking about recreational or competitive swimming.

  • They went swimming at the beach all afternoon.
  • She practices swimming every morning to stay fit.
submerging

Referring to the act of completely going underwater, usually in a more controlled or gradual manner. This term can also be used metaphorically.

  • The submarine is submerging for its mission.
  • She felt like submerging herself in her work to forget her troubles.
plunging

When entering water quickly and forcefully, often implying a sudden or dramatic action. It can also carry a negative connotation, like falling or rushing into something.

  • He took a deep breath before plunging into the icy water.
  • The stock market is plunging today.

Examples of usage

  • Her passion for diving led her to explore the colorful coral reefs.
  • Scuba diving allows divers to explore the depths of the ocean.
  • Diving off the cliff into the crystal-clear water was exhilarating.
Context #2 | Verb

jumping into water headfirst

Diving as a verb refers to the action of jumping headfirst into water. It can be done for fun, as a sport, or as a form of rescue. Diving is often associated with graceful movements and precision.

Synonyms

jumping, plunging, submerging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
diving

This word is often used for entering water headfirst, usually from a platform or springboard in a controlled manner. It's also used in sports, like diving competitions.

  • She enjoys diving off the high board at the pool.
  • They practice diving every weekend.
plunging

Plunging implies entering water or another substance quickly and forcefully. It can sound more dramatic or intense than simple jumping.

  • She plunged into the cold river without hesitation.
  • The view was breathtaking as the waterfall plunged into the ravine.
jumping

Jumping can apply to moving quickly into the air or out of something, not necessarily water-related. It often implies quick, repeated movements.

  • The kids are jumping on the trampoline.
  • He jumped over the puddle on his way home.
submerging

Submerging is usually used to indicate that something is entirely under water or another liquid. It doesn't necessarily imply the act of entering but being completely beneath the surface.

  • They found the car completely submerged in the lake.
  • He slowly submerged himself into the warm bath.

Examples of usage

  • The kids were diving into the pool one after the other.
  • He dove into the lake to save the drowning puppy.
  • She was diving off the diving board with perfect form.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The ancient Greeks practiced diving for treasure and sport, laying the groundwork for modern diving.
  • In 416 BC, Greek philosopher Anaxagoras illustrated the human fascination with the depths of the sea by discussing diving techniques.

Sports

  • Competitive diving became an official Olympic sport in 1904, highlighting its importance in athletic competitions.
  • There are various types of competitive diving, such as springboard, platform, and synchronized diving, each showcasing different skills.

Science

  • Diving can affect human physiology; pressure increases underwater causing nitrogen gases to become more soluble in body tissues, influencing diving practices.
  • The deep sea is home to fascinating life forms that rely on adaptations for survival at extreme depths, making underwater exploration critical for understanding these ecosystems.

Culture

  • In various cultures, diving rituals signify courage and bravery, often tied to fishing traditions or spiritual practices.
  • Underwater photography has gained popularity, combining diving with art, allowing people to capture vibrant marine life and promote ocean conservation.

Origin of 'diving'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'diving' comes from the Old English word 'delfan,' which means to dig, reflecting the adventurer's quest to uncover underwater worlds.
  • It has roots in the Proto-Germanic '*dilfan,' emphasizing its long history in language and exploration.

The word 'diving' originated from the Old English word 'dyfan', which means 'to dip'. The term has evolved over time to specifically refer to the act of swimming or exploring underwater. Diving has been practiced for centuries for various purposes, including fishing, pearl diving, and military operations. In modern times, diving has become a popular recreational activity as well as a competitive sport.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,460, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.