Sinkable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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sinkable
[ˈsɪŋkəbl ]
Definition
nautical term
The term 'sinkable' refers to the capability of an object, typically a vessel, to become submerged in water. It highlights the potential for an item, such as a ship or a buoy, to sink due to various factors including structural integrity, weight, and buoyancy. The concept is crucial in maritime safety, as it determines the risks associated with different types of vessels. Sinkability can also refer to objects in other contexts, such as floating devices that may eventually be overwhelmed by water. In general usage, it denotes anything that has the potential to sink.
Synonyms
drownable, immersible, submergible.
Examples of usage
- The old ship was considered sinkable due to its damaged hull.
- Emergency protocols are crucial for sinkable vessels.
- During the storm, many sinkable crafts were at risk.
- The weight of the cargo made the boat more sinkable.
- Designers aim to create less sinkable watercraft.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Science
- Whether an object is sinkable depends on its density compared to the fluid's density; denser objects sink.
- The principles of buoyancy, defined by Archimedes, explain why some items float while others sink.
- Innovative materials have been designed to make boats lighter and non-sinkable, enhancing safety at sea.
Pop Culture
- Many movies feature sinkable boats, the most famous being the Titanic, which dramatically sunk on its maiden voyage.
- In video games, players often encounter challenges where they must manage sinking ships or escape from bodies of water.
- Comics and cartoons often depict objects that are comically sinkable, creating humor when they unexpectedly go underwater.
Environmental Concerns
- Pollution can make everyday items sinkable as they accumulate in water, affecting wildlife and ecosystems.
- Marine debris, such as plastic, can become sinkable, impacting marine life and habitats.
- Efforts to develop biodegradable items aim to reduce the amount of sinkable pollution in oceans.
Education
- Students often learn about sinkable objects in science classes through experiments involving various materials and liquids.
- This concept is foundational in physics education, providing insight into forces and physical properties.
- Hands-on projects, like building mini boats, help demonstrate the principles of sinkable and non-sinkable designs.
Origin of 'sinkable'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sinkable' comes from the verb 'sink,' which means to go down into water.
- It combines the base 'sink' with the suffix '-able,' which means 'capable of.'
- The concept has been used in various maritime contexts since the advent of modern shipbuilding.
The word 'sinkable' is derived from the verb 'sink,' which has Old English roots, specifically from the word 'sincan,' meaning to fall or descend. The suffix '-able' has been added to denote capability or suitability, which is a common morphological practice in the English language. This construction allows the word to describe not only the action of sinking but also the tendency or potential for something to sink when in water. The term has been used in maritime contexts to address vessel safety, buoyancy concerns, and design considerations for various watercraft since the growth of nautical technology and safety standards became paramount. Over time, 'sinkable' has also found usage in broader, metaphorical contexts to describe anything that might be overwhelmed by external pressures.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #42,750, this word is among the least frequently used in common English. Understanding it can be beneficial for comprehensive language mastery, but it's not essential for most learners.