Meaning & Definition of word "Sunken"

Sunken

/ˈsʌŋ.kən/

adjective:

  • 1. Being lower than the surrounding surface, often due to being submerged or depressed.
    • Example: The sunken ship lay at the bottom of the ocean.
  • 2. Having a hollow or depressed appearance, especially in the context of facial features.
    • Example: Her sunken cheeks indicated that she had not been eating well.
  • 3. Depressed or recessed; not at the level of the surrounding area.
    • Example: The garden featured a sunken patio that created a cozy atmosphere.

Etymology

The word 'sunken' comes from the past participle of 'sink', which originates from Old English 'sincan'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sunken treasure:

Valuables that have been lost underwater.

sunken costs:

Costs that have already been incurred and cannot be recovered.

sunken cheeks:

Cheeks that appear hollow or depressed, often due to weight loss or aging.

Related Words

sink:

To descend or cause to descend to a lower level.

submerge:

To go under the surface of something, especially water.

depth:

The distance below a surface; how deep something is.

Slang Meanings of sunken

Meaning: In trouble or in a difficult situation.

Example Sentence: After failing the exam, he realized he was sunken.

Meaning: Feeling low or sad.

Example Sentence: After the breakup, she was feeling really sunken.