Plumb: meaning, definitions and examples

When used as a verb, it means to measure the depth of something, such as water, or to explore or examine something thoroughly.

• The diver plumbed the depths of the ocean.
• They plumbed the mysteries of the human mind.

This refers to a weight, usually with a pointed tip on the bottom, that is suspended from a string and used as a vertical reference line or to find the depth of water.

• The mason used a plumb bob to ensure the bricks were laid perfectly vertical.
• A plumb bob was lowered into the well to measure its depth.

A string with a weight at the end, used to determine vertical alignment; common in construction and surveying.

• The engineer used a plumb line to check if the building framework was vertical.
• A plumb line was dropped from the top to see if the pillar was straight.

Typically used in construction and engineering to describe the process of making something perfectly vertical. It can also mean to explore or examine something in depth, often in a metaphorical sense.

• The builders made sure the walls were plumb before securing them.
• She tried to plumb the depths of his thoughts.

Used in many contexts involving the quantification of dimensions, quantity, or capacity. It's often the most neutral and general term among the group.

• The carpenter measured the length of the wood before cutting it.
• We need to measure the ingredients accurately for the recipe.

Often used in general situations where a decision or conclusion needs to be made based on evidence or reasoning. It can also refer to the calculation or ascertainment of something.

• The scientist needs to determine the cause of the reaction.
• They were determined to find a solution.