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drown

Drown (verb) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

verb

IPA:

/draʊn/

What does drown mean?

To die by suffocating underwater or in another liquid.
"He tried to drown the noise with his earphones."

Detailed Meaning of Drown

It involves the inhalation of a fluid, typically water, into the lungs, which interferes with the normal process of breathing and can lead to asphyxiation. When a person or an animal drowns, their airways become filled with water, preventing them from obtaining oxygen and expelling carbon dioxide. This loss of oxygen results in a lack of vital life support, leading to unconsciousness and, ultimately, death. Drowning can occur in various circumstances, such as accidental submersion, being caught in a flood or strong currents, or intentionally submerging oneself. It is a tragic event that demands immediate attention and proper rescue measures to prevent loss of life.

Example Sentences for Drown

1. They warn swimmers to be cautious so they don't drown.
2. Do not let your plants drown in excess water.
3. It's important to know how to swim, so you won't drown.
4. A good captain knows how to steer the ship so it doesn't drown.
5. They say sorrow can drown the soul if you let it.
6. I tried to drown my sorrows with ice cream.

Origin and Etymology of Drown

The verb 'drown' has an etymology rooted in Old English. It comes from the Old English word 'druncnian,' which meant 'to be swallowed up by water' or 'to be submerged.' This Old English term is related to the Proto-Germanic word 'drunkan,' which signified 'to be plunged into liquid.' The word 'drunkan' is further linked to the Proto-Indo-European root '*dhreugh,' which carries the idea of 'to sink' or 'to plunge.' Therefore, the etymology of 'drown' conveys the grim concept of dying by suffocating underwater or in another liquid, where one is submerged or engulfed to the point of asphyxiation. The word has retained this fundamental meaning through linguistic evolution and continues to describe the tragic and fatal act of suffocation due to immersion in a liquid medium.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb drown:

rescue

float

save

submerge

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Drown

1. Be careful to not drown the engine by driving through deep water.
2. If you pour too much milk, you’ll drown the cereal.
3. Don't drown your plate with gravy.
4. Make sure you don’t drown the conversation with unnecessary details.
5. If you put too much detergent, you will drown the laundry.
6. The flash flood swept away everything in its path, leaving many animals to drown.
7. You should never drown a wound in alcohol; a little is enough.
8. She might drown the salad with too much dressing.
9. Don't drown your tea with too much sugar.
10. Parents need to watch their kids at the pool so they don’t drown.
11. When life gets tough, people sometimes drown themselves in work.
12. I don’t want to drown my food in hot sauce.
13. She managed to drown her fears and speak in public.
14. People should not drown in self-pity; it’s important to move forward.