Meaning & Definition of word "Sink"

Sink

/sɪŋk/

noun:

  • 1. a basin used for washing dishes or in which to prepare food, typically fitted with a faucet.
    • Example: Please rinse the dishes in the sink before placing them in the dishwasher.
  • 2. an area of low ground that collects water.
    • Example: The sink, filled with rainwater, attracted a lot of wildlife.

verb:

  • 1. to go down below the surface of a liquid; to submerge.
    • Example: The boat began to sink after hitting the iceberg.
  • 2. to fall or drop down to a lower level.
    • Example: The temperature is expected to sink below freezing tonight.
  • 3. to cause (something) to descend or be submerged.
    • Example: They had to sink the anchor to keep the boat from drifting.

Etymology

Old English 'sincan', meaning to sink or fall.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sink or swim:

To fail or succeed by one's own efforts.

sink into despair:

To become deeply sad or discouraged.

sink one's teeth into:

To start working on something with enthusiasm.

Related Words

sinking:

The process of going down below the surface.

sinkhole:

A depression or hole in the ground caused by the collapse of a surface layer.

Slang Meanings of sink

Meaning: To fall asleep deeply.

Example Sentence: After the long day, I just sank into my bed.

Meaning: To lose or fail at something.

Example Sentence: He sank in the final exam after not studying.