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Drowning

Definitions and Meaning in English

1. The process of experiencing respiratory impairment due to submersion or immersion in liquid, often leading to suffocation.
2. A state of being overwhelmed or submerged metaphorically, such as in work or emotions.

History and Origin

The term “drowning” originates from the Old English drūnian, meaning “to submerge or be swallowed up.” It has Germanic roots and was historically used in the context of physical submersion. Over time, the word expanded to include figurative uses, such as being overwhelmed.

Detailed Explanation

Drowning primarily refers to a life-threatening condition caused by the inability to breathe while submerged in water or another liquid. It can result in unconsciousness or death if not promptly addressed. Beyond its literal meaning, the term is often used metaphorically to describe situations of extreme emotional or mental overwhelm, such as “drowning in debt” or “drowning in sorrow.”

Example Sentences

1. Lifeguards quickly rescued the child from drowning at the beach.
2. The swimmer narrowly escaped drowning in the strong currents.
3. He felt like he was drowning under the weight of his responsibilities.
4. The river’s high tide caused several instances of drowning in the area.
5. Her laughter was so contagious that it drowned out all other sounds.
6. He was drowning in guilt after the argument with his friend.
7. Immediate CPR can save a person from drowning if done correctly.
8. She was metaphorically drowning in paperwork by the end of the week.
9. The team worked tirelessly to prevent drowning incidents during the storm.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

1. Sinking – Going below the surface of a liquid.
2. Submerging – Being completely covered or immersed in liquid.
3. Engulfing – Being swallowed up or surrounded entirely.
4. Overwhelming – Feeling overpowered or unable to cope.
5. Immersing – Being deeply involved or submerged, literally or figuratively.

Related Words with Short Explanation

1. Asphyxiation – The condition of being deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death.
2. Submersion – The act of going underwater or being fully covered in liquid.
3. Suffocation – The inability to breathe, often caused by drowning or choking.
4. Flooding – A large amount of water covering an area, potentially leading to drowning.
5. Capsizing – The overturning of a boat, often leading to drowning incidents.

More Matches with Short Explanation

1. Choking – A respiratory blockage that can occur during drowning.
2. Immersion – Being deeply involved or submerged in a liquid.
3. Engulfed – Completely surrounded or covered, often in a dangerous way.
4. Overcome – Feeling overwhelmed, either literally or metaphorically.
5. Inundated – Overwhelmed by a large amount of something, like water or tasks.

Antonyms

1. Floating
2. Surfacing
3. Rescuing
4. Breathing
5. Rising