Seep Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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seep

[siːp ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

water

To flow or pass slowly through small openings or spaces; to ooze.

Synonyms

leak, ooze, percolate, trickle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seep	When something liquid flows slowly through small openings or porous material. Water began to seep through the cracks in the basement wall
trickle	When a small amount of liquid flows slowly in a thin stream. A small stream of water began to trickle down the window during the rain
percolate	When a liquid slowly passes through a filter or porous substance, often used for coffee or groundwater. The water will percolate through the coffee grounds to make a fresh pot of coffee
leak	When liquid or gas escapes unintentionally from a hole or crack. Oil started to leak from the engine after the accident
ooze	When something thick or viscous flows slowly; often used for substances like slime or mud which can be gross or unpleasant. Mud began to ooze out from the bottom of the pond

Examples of usage

The water began to seep through the cracks in the wall.
After heavy rain, the water seeped into the basement.
The dye seeped into the fabric, creating a beautiful pattern.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

water

A small quantity of liquid that has leaked or been absorbed.

Synonyms

drip, leakage, ooze.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
seep	Seep is used when a liquid slowly passes through small openings or porous material. It suggests a gradual flow. Water began to seep through the cracks in the basement wall
leakage	Leakage is a broader term that refers to any unintended escape of liquid or gas from a container, pipe, or sealed area. It is often used in more technical or serious contexts. The engineer discovered a leakage in the fuel system, which could have led to a major accident
ooze	Ooze indicates a slow, often thick and sticky, outflow of liquid. It is sometimes used for anything that moves sluggishly. Dark liquid oozed from the punctured can, staining the tablecloth
drip	Drip is for when liquid falls in small drops, often at a regular rate. It can be from a tap or any container that leaks slightly. The faucet won't stop dripping, and it's driving me crazy

Examples of usage

There was a seep of oil coming from the engine.
The seep of water on the floor indicated a leak.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

Seepage is a natural process often seen in geology; it influences water tables and the movement of groundwater.
In environmental science, the seepage of chemicals from waste sites can lead to soil and water contamination.
Capillary action is a phenomenon related to seepage, where liquids move through tiny spaces in materials.

Literature

In poetry, seepage often symbolizes emotions or memories that slowly come to the surface, suggesting vulnerability.
In many stories, characters 'seep' their feelings through actions rather than words, showing deeper themes of human connection.
Classic literature often uses the imagery of water seepage to represent time and how it affects people and places.

Everyday Life

Seeping can occur in many household scenarios, like when coffee seeps through a filter during brewing.
Even in cooking, marinades seep into meats, allowing flavors to penetrate deeply.
Leaky roofs or pipes around the house are common instances where seepage causes issues for homeowners.

Culture

In art, seepage can be a powerful motif used to depict things that invade or spread beyond their original boundaries.
In films, a character’s emotions may 'seep' out into their actions, providing a deeper layer of storytelling.
In various cultures, water's ability to seep into the earth is often linked to themes of renewal and growth.

Origin of 'seep'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Old English 'sēopan', which meant to flow or leak.
The spelling has remained quite consistent through the centuries, reflecting its simple yet effective meaning.
Related words include 'slope', indicating a similar flow or movement downward.

The word 'seep' originated from Middle English 'sipen', which means to ooze or soak through. It has been used since the 14th century to describe the slow, gradual flow of liquid through small openings. The concept of seeping has been observed in nature, such as water seeping through rocks or oil seeping from the ground. Over time, 'seep' has become a common term to describe the slow leakage or absorption of liquids.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,454, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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23451 garner
23452 tramps
23453 carbonated
23454 seep
23455 radish
23456 perversity
23457 entertainer
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