Dunked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
đ
dunked
[dĘĹkt ]
Definition
basketball action
To dunk refers to the action of scoring in basketball by jumping and forcefully putting the ball directly through the hoop with one or both hands. This skilled move is often performed during a fast break or when a player drives to the basket. Dunking is not only an effective way to score but also serves to energize the crowd and showcase an athlete's jumping ability. It is a popular highlight in the sport and can vary in difficulty based on the player's total height and skill level.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He dunked the ball with ease during the game.
- She performed an incredible dunk that left the audience in awe.
- The player dunked over his opponent, impressing everyone in the arena.
- A perfect dunk can change the momentum of the game.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Sports
- In basketball, a dunk is a high-impact shot where a player jumps and scores by putting the ball directly through the hoop.
- Dunks are often celebrated in sports culture for their athleticism and style, with famous players like Michael Jordan and LeBron James known for their signature dunks.
- The NBA hosts specific competitions, such as the Slam Dunk Contest, where athletes showcase creative and acrobatic dunking skills.
Pop Culture
- The word 'dunked' has appeared in various films and television shows, often used humorously when food is unexpectedly dropped in liquid.
- Popular snack brands have capitalized on the idea of 'dunking', creating products specifically designed to enhance this eating experience, like dunkable cookies and snacks.
- Catchphrases in sports commentary sometimes use 'dunked' to describe a stunning play, adding to its cultural significance.
Psychology
- Dunking food can evoke positive emotions, as it often reminds people of comfort foods and cherished childhood experiences.
- In psychological experiments, the act of dunking can symbolize surrender or giving oneself over to something pleasurable.
- Dunking may also activate sensory pleasure, intertwining taste with the visual act.
Origin of 'dunked'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'dunk' has origins in the mid-17th century, likely derived from the Dutch word 'dunken', meaning to dip.
- In the early 1900s, 'dunk' became commonly associated with food, especially pastries and cookies in beverages.
- The transition of the word into sports slang is a more recent development, connecting it to basketball.
The term 'dunked' originates from the early years of basketball in the United States, with its usage starting to rise significantly in the 1970s. Although the exact origins of the term are difficult to trace, it is believed to have emerged from the playful language of street basketball, reflecting the idea of forcefully and decisively putting the ball through the hoop. The action of 'dunking' became widely popular as basketball evolved, and players like Julius Erving and Michael Jordan brought it into the spotlight with their spectacular rim-rattling dunks. The word is now deeply embedded in basketball culture and is synonymous with athletic prowess and excitement on the court. As the sport has grown, so has the complexity and creativity of dunks, leading to various competitions celebrating this aspect of the game.