Sink

Definition

The term "sink" describes the act of descending or being submerged below a surface, or a basin used for washing and draining.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪŋk/
• Respelling: sink

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /sɪŋk/
• Respelling: sink

Etymology

The word "sink" originates from Old English "sincan," meaning "to become submerged." It is related to Proto-Germanic "*sinkwaną," with connections to Old Norse "sökkva" and Dutch "zinken," all conveying the idea of descending or going down.

Derivatives

• Sinking (verb)
• Sunk (verb, past tense)
• Sinker (noun)
• Resink (verb)
• Sinkable (adjective)

Synonyms

• Submerge
• Descend
• Plunge

Antonyms

• Rise
• Float
• Ascend

Usage

The term "sink" is used in various contexts, such as describing the submersion of objects in water or referring to a fixture in kitchens or bathrooms. For example, "The boat began to sink after hitting the iceberg" (verb) or "She washed the dishes in the sink" (noun).

Related Terms

• Float: To remain on the surface of a liquid.
• Drain: To remove liquid from an area or container.
• Submersion: The act of being completely underwater.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To descend or submerge below a surface: Refers to the action of going down or being covered by a liquid.
  • Example: "The stone will sink if dropped in water."
• To decrease in value, condition, or intensity: Refers to the metaphorical decline of something.
  • Example: "His spirits began to sink after the bad news."
• To embed or cause to penetrate into a surface: Often refers to inserting objects into something solid.
  • Example: "She sank the nails into the wood."

Noun

• A basin for washing or draining: A fixture found in kitchens or bathrooms for water-based tasks.
  • Example: "The sink is clogged and needs to be fixed."
• A low-lying area where liquids collect: Refers to a depression that accumulates water or other fluids.
  • Example: "The marsh acted as a natural sink for rainwater."