Drench Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drench

[drench /drench ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

weather

To drench means to soak or wet thoroughly. It is often used in the context of heavy rain or being completely soaked through. This word is commonly used to describe being heavily wet or saturated with water.

Synonyms

saturate, soak, wet.

Examples of usage

  • He got drenched in the rain on his way home.
  • The sudden storm drenched the entire city in minutes.
  • She was drenched from head to toe after jumping into the pool.
Context #2 | Verb

drink

To drench also means to give a large amount of liquid to drink. It is often used in the context of animals or livestock being given plenty of water to drink. This word is commonly used in farming or veterinary settings.

Synonyms

hydrate, quench.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer drenched the cows with fresh water.
  • The vet drenched the horse with electrolytes after the race.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Literature

  • In poetry, authors often use 'drench' to describe emotional states, conveying feelings of being overwhelmed.
  • Drenching imagery appears frequently in novels to symbolize transformation, such as a character absorbing a life-changing lesson during a storm.
  • Classic literature often contrasts scenes of warmth with drenching rain to highlight struggle or despair.

Weather Phenomena

  • Tropical storms and hurricanes are infamous for drenching areas in powerful rainfall, sometimes leading to flooding.
  • Drenching rains can also lead to an increase in plant growth, as many plants thrive in wet conditions.
  • Meteorologists use the term to describe sudden downpours that leave people or places soaked in minutes.

Science

  • Drenching effects in nature are crucial for ecosystems, aiding in the water cycle and replenishing groundwater supplies.
  • Soil scientists study how drenching impacts soil health, as excessive water can lead to erosion or nutrient runoff.
  • Watering plants effectively is similar to drenching; it's about ensuring roots receive enough moisture without causing damage.

Cultural References

  • In various cultures, there are rituals involving drenching, such as water festivals where people splash each other as a form of celebration.
  • Drenching scenes are iconic in films, often used to add drama or symbolize a character's emotional state.
  • In some traditions, getting drenched during a ceremony is believed to cleanse the spirit and bring good fortune.

Origin of 'drench'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Middle English 'drenchen', which meant to cause to drink or to soak.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Old English 'drincan', meaning to drink, linking it to the idea of soaking something thoroughly.
  • Related words include 'drenching' and 'drenched', which both describe the action of becoming completely wet.

The word 'drench' originated from Middle English 'drenche', which comes from Old English 'drencan' meaning 'to cause to drink'. Over time, the meaning expanded to include soaking or wetting thoroughly, both in terms of drinking and weather. The word has been in use for centuries to describe the act of saturating with liquid.


See also: drenched.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,313, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.