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Foundering: meaning, definitions and examples

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foundering

 

[ ˈfaʊndərɪŋ ]

Verb / Adjective
Context #1 | Verb

sinking ship

Foundering refers to the process by which a ship or vessel fills with water and begins to sink. It can also indicate a failure or collapse of something, usually due to internal issues or external pressures.

Synonyms

collapsing, failing, sinking

Examples of usage

  • The ship was foundering after hitting a reef.
  • His business started foundering due to lack of funds.
  • The organization is foundering under poor leadership.
Context #2 | Adjective

failing venture

When used as an adjective, foundering describes something that is failing or experiencing difficulties, particularly in a professional or business context.

Synonyms

ailing, declining, struggling

Examples of usage

  • They were concerned about the foundering project.
  • The economy is foundering due to multiple factors.
  • Her foundering career was evident in her declining job offers.

Translations

Translations of the word "foundering" in other languages:

🇵🇹 afundação

🇮🇳 डूबना

🇩🇪 Untergang

🇮🇩 terbenam

🇺🇦 затоплення

🇵🇱 zatonięcie

🇯🇵 沈没

🇫🇷 naufrage

🇪🇸 hundimiento

🇹🇷 batma

🇰🇷 침몰

🇸🇦 غرق

🇨🇿 potopení

🇸🇰 zánik

🇨🇳 沉没

🇸🇮 potopitev

🇮🇸 flood

🇰🇿 батыру

🇬🇪 წყალდიდობა

🇦🇿 batma

🇲🇽 hundimiento

Etymology

The term 'founder' originates from the Old English 'fundor', which relates to the act of sinking or submerging. The linguistics have evolved as nautical language developed, and in the 16th century, 'founder' became closely associated with maritime terminology indicating the sinking of ships. The transition from a literal interpretation of sinking objects to metaphorical usages, such as businesses or endeavors failing, became more common in the following centuries. Today, foundering is frequently used to describe both tangible vessels and abstract concepts, highlighting its versatility in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,392 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.