Plunger Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ ๏ธ
plunger
[หplสndสษr ]
Definition
plumbing tool
A plunger is a common household tool used to clear blockages in plumbing systems. It consists of a rubber suction cup attached to a long handle. When the rubber cup is pressed against a drain and pulled back, it creates a vacuum that can dislodge clogs. Plungers come in various shapes and sizes, suited for different types of drains, such as toilets or sinks. Proper use of a plunger can often resolve minor plumbing issues without the need for professional help.
Synonyms
drain opener, suction cup, unclogger.
Examples of usage
- I used a plunger to clear the clogged sink.
- He grabbed the plunger to fix the toilet.
- After several attempts with the plunger, the toilet was still blocked.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Invention History
- The first version of a plunger-like tool was made for clearing blockages in ancient Roman plumbing systems.
- The modern design of the plunger was refined in the 1930s, leading to the rubber-suction cup style we know today.
Popular Culture
- Plungers often appear in cartoons and movies as a humorous tool used by characters to solve problems.
- In many homes, the plunger is a symbol of DIY repairs, often depicted in home improvement shows.
Science
- A plunger works on the principle of pressure: pushing down creates a vacuum that helps pull the blockage up.
- Different types of plungers exist for various plumbing needs, including toilet-specific ones and sink models.
Psychology
- Using a plunger can induce a sense of accomplishment, as people often feel a relief when they successfully clear a blockage.
- The act of unclogging is metaphorically linked to overcoming obstacles, which can empower individuals.
Origin of 'plunger'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'plunger' comes from the verb 'to plunge,' which means to dive into something.
- It has been in use since the late 19th century, evolving as plumbing technology advanced.
The word 'plunger' originated in the late 19th century from the verb 'plunge', which means to dive or immerse. The tool was designed to plunge into drain openings to create a strong suction that can remove blockages. The earliest known uses of plungers were in plumbing as a solution to the common household issue of clogged drains. Over time, the design and materials of plungers have evolved, but the basic mechanism remains the same. The term has also been colloquially adopted in various contexts beyond plumbing, indicating any object that functions similarly by creating a seal and applying force to move substances.