Foundering: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originates from the Old English 'fundrian,' which meant to sink or fall.
• In marine contexts, it originally described ships that were unable to stay afloat due to unforeseen circumstances.

Literature

• Foundering has been used in literary works to symbolize the collapse of dreams or ambitions, particularly in poetry.
• An example of its use can be found in maritime literature, where it evokes strong imagery of shipwrecks and danger.

Psychology

• The term can metaphorically describe emotional collapse or failure when someone feels overwhelmed and unable to cope.
• It's often associated with scenarios of high pressure, where one might feel they are 'foundering' under stress.

Pop Culture

• Movies about maritime disasters frequently use foundering to highlight moments where a voyage takes a tragic turn.
• The term can also be found in lyrics of songs that explore themes of loss and failure.

Science

• In environmental science, foundering can refer to the failure of ecosystems to sustain life due to pollution or climate change.
• Researchers study the foundering of species populations to understand the impacts of habitat loss and environmental shifts.

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.

• ...
• 31389 bisexuality
• 31390 vetting
• 31391 stoically
• 31392 foundering
• 31393 lasagna
• 31394 decrying
• 31395 flagellate
• ...