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Sunk Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sunk

[sĘŒÅ‹k ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

past participle

Sunk is the past participle of sink, which means to descend below the surface of a liquid or to become submerged. It can also refer to a decline in value or a situation that deteriorates.

Synonyms

descended, drowned, submerged.

Examples of usage

  • The ship had sunk after the storm.
  • He felt that his dreams had sunk along with his hopes.
  • The boat was sunk by the waves.
Context #2 | Adjective

submerged state

When something is described as sunk, it can refer to being fully submerged or trapped in a lower state, often used metaphorically for feelings or situations.

Synonyms

depressed, downtrodden, weighted down.

Examples of usage

  • His spirits were sunk after the bad news.
  • The organization was sunk in debt.
  • Their relationship felt sunk beyond repair.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • An object sinks when it is denser than the fluid it's in, like how a rock sinks in water.
  • In physics, the concept of buoyancy explains why some objects float while others sink.
  • Sinking can also refer to geological processes where land may sink due to erosion or sediment buildup.

Literature

  • In many stories, characters face the metaphor of sinking as they encounter problems or overwhelming emotions.
  • The phrase 'sunk in thought' illustrates a deep level of contemplation or worry.
  • Classic literature often uses the metaphor of sinking to depict loss or failure, enhancing emotional impact.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, shipwrecks often serve as dramatic moments, highlighting the theme of things flying high before they ultimately sink.
  • Popular songs frequently use sinking as a metaphor for love lost or feelings of despair.
  • Video games sometimes feature mechanics where players must keep from sinking in water or as a consequence of failing an objective.

History

  • Many famous naval battles in history resulted in ships being sunk, marking significant moments in wars.
  • The Titanic is one of the most well-known shipwrecks in history, often serving as a cautionary tale about hubris and disaster.
  • Historical records show that roughly 60% of shipwrecks have gone undiscovered and continue to lie sunk beneath the waves.

Origin of 'sunk'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'suncan', meaning 'to sink or fall'.
  • It has been used in the English language since the 12th century.
  • Related forms include 'sink', which refers to the action, and 'sank', the past simple form of sink.

The word 'sunk' originates from the Old English 'syngan,' which means 'to sink or fall.' This root word is related to several languages in the Germanic family, including Dutch and German, where similar terms convey the idea of descending or being submerged. Over time, the term evolved in English to encompass broader meanings, both literal and figurative. In its verb form, 'sink' has maintained consistent usage since the Middle Ages, indicating processes of submersion. The usage of 'sunk' as a past participle became more common during the 15th century, as the language continued to evolve. Its metaphorical applications, describing emotional states or conditions, emerged as English literature flourished during the Renaissance, illustrating humanity's struggles against adversity and decline.

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,537 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.