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Plumped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plumped

[plʌmpt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

to inflate

The term 'plumped' generally refers to making something fuller or rounder, often by the addition of air or filling. In a more figurative sense, it can describe a state of being more robust or substantial. This term is commonly associated with items like pillows or cushions, where one may plump them up to achieve a more desirable shape and comfort. It can also refer to the act of making a decision or choice that is bold and decisive.

Synonyms

filled, inflated, puffed, rounded, stuffed.

Examples of usage

  • She plumped the pillows before the guests arrived.
  • He plumped for the more expensive option.
  • The chef plumped up the soufflé to make it look more appealing.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Arts

  • In cooking, fruits can be plumped by soaking them in water or juice, making them juicier and tastier.
  • Plumping is often used in baking, especially for pastries that need to be light and airy.
  • Cooks might plump meats by marinating them, adding moisture and flavor.

Fashion and Beauty

  • In the beauty industry, products like lip fillers are sometimes known for giving lips a plumped look.
  • In fashion, a 'plumped' style might refer to garments that emphasize curves and fullness.
  • Plumping creams are used in skincare to give the appearance of fuller skin or cheeks.

Psychology

  • The concept of feeling 'plump' can relate to body image and self-esteem, emphasizing cultural ideals of beauty.
  • Research shows that perceptions of plumpness in people often tie to feelings of comfort and safety in relationships.
  • In art, a plumped form can be seen as a representation of abundance and health, influencing how we perceive beauty.

Literature

  • Authors often use 'plumped' in descriptive writing to evoke feelings of abundance or fullness in settings or characters.
  • In poetry, a plumped description can create vivid imagery, bringing characters or objects to life with depth and richness.
  • Classic literature sometimes contrasts plump characters with lean ones to symbolize wealth versus poverty.

Origin of 'plumped'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'plump' comes from the Middle English 'plumpe,' which meant to fall or drop suddenly.
  • It has origins in several languages, including the Old Norse word 'plumpa,' meaning to sag or droop.
  • The use of 'plumped' to describe fullness appeared in English literature around the 16th century.

The word 'plump' originates from Middle English 'plumpe', which means to fall or drop heavily, derived from Old Norse 'plumpa', meaning to fall or tumble. The evolution of the term took a turn into describing fullness or roundness, particularly in relation to objects like cushions or food items. Over time, the term gained additional connotations, branching into the idiomatic expression of decisiveness in choices. It reflects an interesting shift from a physical action to a metaphorical representation of qualities like decisiveness or exuberance. The usage of 'plumped' as the past participle further emphasizes this transition in meaning from a simple physical descriptor to a more nuanced expression widely found in modern English discussions around comfort and choice.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,478 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.