Plunged Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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plunged

[plสŒndส’d ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

action of diving

To plunge means to dive or to thrust into something, often with force or suddenness. It can refer to physically jumping or diving into a body of water or to a rapid decline in price, quantity, or quality. The term can also be used metaphorically, indicating a sudden or dramatic move into a state or condition, such as plunging into work or a new project.

Synonyms

descend, dive, drop, fall, jump.

Examples of usage

  • He plunged into the pool on a hot summer day.
  • The stock market plunged after the economic news broke.
  • She plunged into her studies to catch up before the exam.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The word is often used in classic literature to convey dramatic moments, such as a character unexpectedly falling into danger.
  • Authors use 'plunged' to describe deep emotional transitions, creating vivid imagery of characters losing control or falling into despair.
  • In poetry, the imagery of plunging evokes strong sensations, allowing readers to feel the weight of the moment.

Psychology

  • 'Plunged' can describe sudden changes in emotional states, as people often relate to feelings of falling into anxiety or depression.
  • There is a psychological phenomenon known as 'plunge effect,' where individuals experience a drastic change in mood due to unexpected events.
  • Study findings suggest that when people describe their emotions with words like 'plunged,' it helps them process feelings more effectively.

Pop Culture

  • The term is widely used in adventure movies or stories, often describing a character diving into thrilling situations, heightening the excitement.
  • In video games, characters often 'plunge' into action, adding drama and urgency to gameplay, enticing players to engage quickly.
  • Songs and poems frequently use 'plunge' as a metaphor for falling in love, suggesting an exhilarating and sometimes overwhelming experience.

Origin of 'plunged'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'plunge' comes from the Latin 'plumbum,' meaning lead, which refers to the heavy, downward motion.
  • In the 14th century, 'plunge' originally meant to dip or immerse something into water.
  • The term has evolved; while it used to refer to physical immersion, it now also describes sudden emotional or situational drops.

The word 'plunge' originates from the late Middle English term 'plongen', which is derived from the Old French 'plongier', meaning 'to dive'. This term, in turn, goes back to the Latin 'plumbare', which means 'to dive or plunge', related to 'plumbum', meaning 'lead', possibly due to the weight of lead as it sinks. The action implied by 'plunge' has retained its meaning through the centuries, emphasizing sudden immersion or movement downward. The evolution of the term has expanded its usage to describe not just physical acts of diving but also metaphorical situations where something is rapidly and decisively entered or invested in.


Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,293 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.