Dump

Definition

Dump refers to the act of discarding or getting rid of something, often in a careless or unsystematic manner. It can also refer to a site where waste materials are disposed of, or the action of unloading a large quantity of something at once. As a noun, it can describe both a garbage disposal site and a disorganized or unpleasant place.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʌmp/
• Respelling: dump

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /dʌmp/
• Respelling: dump

The pronunciation of "dump" is the same in both American and British English, with a short "u" sound.

Etymology

The word "dump" originated in the late 14th century, derived from the Middle Dutch "dompen," meaning "to plunge" or "to submerge." It has evolved over time to refer to the act of throwing down or discarding something. By the 19th century, it was also used to describe waste disposal sites.

Derivatives

• Dumping (noun/verb)
• Dumped (verb)
• Dumpable (adjective)
• Dumpage (noun)
• Dump truck (noun)

Synonyms

• Discard
• Dispose
• Unload

Antonyms

• Collect
• Retain
• Gather

Usage

The term "dump" is used in various contexts. As a verb, it typically refers to the act of discarding or unloading something, such as waste or an unwanted item. As a noun, it can refer to a physical location where waste is disposed of or to describe a disorganized or unpleasant place, often used metaphorically to describe a run-down area or poorly maintained property.

Related Terms

• Landfill: A site for the disposal of waste materials by burial.
• Junk: Old or discarded items, often considered useless.
• Dispose: To get rid of something or throw it away.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A place where waste materials are disposed of: Refers to a site designated for dumping garbage or other discarded materials.
  • Example: "The city operates a dump on the outskirts of town."
• A disorganized or unpleasant place: Describes a location that is run-down, messy, or undesirable.
  • Example: "His apartment was such a dump that no one wanted to visit."

Verb

• To discard or throw away something carelessly: Refers to the act of getting rid of something, often quickly or without much thought.
  • Example: "She dumped the old furniture in the trash."
• To unload or release a large amount of something: Describes the act of dropping or releasing a heavy load at once.
  • Example: "The truck dumped a load of sand on the construction site."