Flood: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a large amount of water covering an area that is usually dry. Commonly used in both everyday conversation and official reports.

• The river burst its banks and caused a massive flood in the town.
• After the heavy rain, the basement was flooded.

Describes a severe, overwhelming flood or anything that arrives in an overwhelming amount. Often used in a poetic or dramatic context.

• The dam broke, sending a deluge of water into the valley.
• She received a deluge of complaints after the announcement.

A formal term used mainly in official or scientific reports to describe the covering of land with water. It can also be used metaphorically but is less common in casual conversation.

• The coastal regions witnessed significant inundation due to the hurricane.
• There was an inundation of emails after the product launch.

Refers to water overflowing from its usual container or space, often used in a more everyday context. It can also describe situations where a system is handling more than its capacity.

• The bathtub overflowed and water spilled onto the bathroom floor.
• The meeting room is full, and overflow guests are being directed to the adjacent hall.

Used when talking about an overflow of water that covers land which is usually dry. It can also be used metaphorically for being overwhelmed with something, like emotions or tasks.

• The river burst its banks and caused a massive flood in the town
• She felt a flood of emotions as she received the news

Used when talking about completely covering or sinking something underwater or any other liquid. Can also be used figuratively to describe something being hidden or buried under a large volume of something.

• The diver decided to submerge himself in the deeper part of the lake
• Her dreams were submerged under the weight of responsibilities

Used to describe something that completely covers or surrounds something else, often in a dramatic or overwhelming way. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

• The flames quickly engulfed the house
• He was engulfed by guilt after making the mistake

Often used to indicate being flooded with water or being overwhelmed by a large amount or number of something. It has a slightly negative connotation.

• During the storm, the coastal town was inundated with seawater
• I was inundated with emails after the announcement