Meaning & Definition of word "Tumble"

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    Tumble

    /ˈtʌm.bəl/

    noun:

    • 1. a sudden fall or collapse
      • Example: She took a tumble on the ice and sprained her ankle.
    • 2. a series of movements in which someone or something falls and goes over and over
      • Example: The gymnast executed a perfect tumble on the mat.

    verb:

    • 1. to fall suddenly and helplessly
      • Example: The child tumbled down the hill while playing.
    • 2. to roll or fall over and over
      • Example: The leaf tumbled across the pavement in the wind.
    • 3. to move or cause to move in a rapid, unsteady way
      • Example: The sheaves of grain tumbled from the back of the truck.

    Etymology

    Middle English 'tumblen', from Old French 'tumblr', meaning 'to tumble'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    take a tumble:

    To fall or stumble unexpectedly.

    tumble down:

    To fall or collapse downwards.

    tumble to something:

    To suddenly understand or realize something.

    Related Words

    tumbler:

    A device used for tumbling or the action related to rolling.

    tumbling:

    The act of falling or rolling over.

    tumbleweed:

    A plant that breaks off and tumbles along the ground.

    Slang Meanings of tumble

    Meaning: To be in a situation of chaos or trouble.

    Example Sentence: After the scandal, the company was really tumbling.

    Meaning: To engage in acrobatic or gymnastic movements.

    Example Sentence: The kids are tumbling in the gym this afternoon.