Dripping Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dripping

[หˆdrษชpษชล‹ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

liquid flow

Dripping refers to the action of a liquid falling in drops. This can occur in various contexts, such as when water leaks from a faucet or when condensation forms on a cold surface. The motion is often rhythmic and can create a soft sound, particularly in quiet environments. Dripping can also evoke a sense of urgency or annoyance, especially when it is a repetitive sound from a leaking pipe.

Synonyms

dribble, leak, trickle.

Examples of usage

  • The faucet is dripping loudly.
  • Rainwater was dripping from the eaves.
  • She watched the honey dripping from the spoon.
Context #2 | Noun

liquid drops

Dripping, as a noun, describes the act or process of a liquid falling in drops. It can also refer to the sound produced by this action. In the culinary world, dripping often relates to the fat that collects in a pan during cooking, which can be used for flavoring. The term may also be used in artistic expressions, indicating a style where paint is applied in a dripping fashion.

Synonyms

drop, leak, trickle.

Examples of usage

  • There was a constant dripping from the ceiling.
  • The dripping from the roast was saved for gravy.
  • The artist's work featured vibrant dripping colors.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Dripping can occur in various states of matter, but it is most commonly associated with liquids under the force of gravity.
  • The size of the droplets and the speed of dripping can depend on factors like the viscosity of the liquid and the surface tension.

Art

  • Artists like Jackson Pollock famously used dripping techniques in painting, letting liquid paint fall onto a canvas to create unique designs.
  • Dripping, in art, often conveys movement and spontaneity, allowing forms to emerge naturally.

Nature

  • Dripping is a natural phenomenon seen in waterfalls, where water constantly falls from great heights.
  • In winter, melted snow can drip from icicles, creating a beautiful sound in quiet landscapes.

Pop Culture

  • Songs often use the concept of dripping to convey styles or emotions, like 'Drip' in fashion indicating a cool or attractive vibe.
  • In movies, dripping can signify tension or suspense, like when a character is under pressure and water starts to fall.

Origin of 'dripping'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'dripian', which means to fall in drops.
  • It has been used since around the 12th century, showing how long people have been talking about liquids falling.

The word 'dripping' originates from the Old English 'dripian', which means 'to fall in drops'. This evolved from the Proto-West Germanic word '*dripลnฤ…', indicating a continuous stream or falling action. The term has been part of the English language for many centuries and has maintained its original meaning related to the flow of liquids. Over time, 'dripping' has also found its place in various literary and artistic contexts, signifying not just a physical action but also an emotional or atmospheric nuance in storytelling and visual arts.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,257, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.