Soaking: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something or someone that is extremely wet, typically from being in the rain or a large amount of water.

• After walking through the storm, he was soaking wet.
• The children were soaking after playing in the sprinkler.

Implies making something or someone completely wet, usually unexpectedly or uncomfortably. Often used in contexts where the wetness is extreme.

• The sudden downpour drenched us before we could find shelter.
• He was drenched in sweat after running the marathon.

Means to make something completely soaked, often to the point where no more liquid can be absorbed. Can also be used figuratively in contexts like markets or colors.

• The ground was saturated after the heavy rain.
• The market is saturated with similar products.

Often used when referring to pouring a large amount of liquid over something, typically to extinguish a fire or cover something with water. Can have a negative connotation if it's forceful or sudden.

• The firemen doused the flames with water.
• She accidentally doused her clothes with juice.

Typically used when something is fully submerged in a liquid, or figuratively when someone is deeply involved in an activity. Usually neutral or positive in connotation.

• To cook the pasta, you need to immerse it in boiling water.
• She was completely immersed in her book.

Used when someone or something is very wet, often due to being in water for a long time. It emphasizes the extent to which the object or person is saturated with liquid.

• After playing in the rain, I was completely soaking
• The sponge needs a good soaking before we use it

Commonly refers to the act of washing the body in a tub of water. It can also be used more broadly for any soaking activity done for relaxation or hygiene.

• She enjoys a warm bath after a long day
• The doctor recommended taking a hot bath to relieve muscle tension

Refers to briefly entering or submerging something into a liquid. It is used when the action is quick and temporary.

• He took a quick dip in the pool before breakfast
• I like to dip my cookies in milk

Indicates a complete submersion in liquid, often for a long period. Sometimes used in a metaphorical sense to describe being deeply involved in an activity or subject.

• Full immersion in the language helped him learn French quickly
• The diver prepared for deep-water immersion

Refers to being fully under the surface of water or another liquid. Often used in scientific or technical contexts. Can have a more formal or severe connotation.

• The submersion of the submarine took several minutes
• Prolonged submersion in water can cause hypothermia