WordGarden.ioplunge
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /plˈʌndʒ/
US
- /ˈpləndʒ/
Meanings
Verb
to dive or move suddenly downward into something
to drop suddenly and steeply in amount, value, or level
to enter suddenly or throw someone suddenly into an activity, state, or difficult situation
Noun
a sudden dive or downward movement
a sudden steep fall in amount, value, or level
Beyond the definition
To plunge means to fall rapidly and with force, like dropping over a waterfall. But it does not always involve falling. You can also plunge into something in a figurative way, like "plunging into work," which means starting with a lot of energy. A sudden drop in temperature or stock prices can also be called a plunge. Imagine a brave swimmer diving into icy water: it feels sudden, bold, and decisive.
The word suggests speed and commitment. You do not ease into it; you just do it. It can feel scary, exciting, or both. A detective might plunge into an investigation, meaning they throw themselves fully into solving the case.
To plunge means to fall or drop suddenly and rapidly, often from a height. Picture a majestic eagle plunging from the sky to catch its prey, or a rollercoaster car plunging down a steep hill—that's the core image of this word. "The hiker accidentally plunged off the cliff edge" describes a dangerous and uncontrolled descent.
However, "plunge" is not limited to physical falls. It can also mean to get deeply involved in something, like an activity or situation. To "plunge into research" means to give yourself completely to studying a topic. You can also plunge into a difficult situation or suddenly find yourself in debt. This figurative use suggests quick and deep involvement.
The word can also describe a forceful, sudden motion of an object. You might plunge a dagger into a block of wood or plunge a thermometer into a roast to check the temperature. This transitive use highlights the strength and speed behind the action.
"Plunge" is also the perfect word for a sudden and significant decrease. "Stock prices plunged after the announcement" indicates a sharp drop in value. A dramatic change in temperature is also described as a plunge: "Temperatures plunged overnight, bringing snow."
Historically, "plunge" comes from an Old French word meaning to dive or immerse. This origin explains why it's often associated with water—you can still "take a plunge" into a swimming pool! But remember, the word carries a sense of immediacy and decisiveness, whether describing a physical fall, a deep commitment, or a sudden change. If something is happening quickly and dramatically, chances are it's plunging!
Examples
- 1
Water
She took a deep breath and plunged into the cold lake.
- 2
Road descent
The road plunged down toward the valley.
- 3
Weather
Temperatures plunged overnight, and the streets were icy by morning.
- 4
Stock prices
The company's shares plunged to their lowest level in five years.
- Patternplunge to + level
fall quickly until it reaches that level
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Sudden darkness
A power cut plunged the whole building into darkness.
- Patternplunge something into darkness/chaos/crisis
suddenly put it in that state
- 6
Work focus
After lunch, he plunged back into his emails.
- Patternplunge into + activity/task
start doing it suddenly and with a lot of energy
- 7
Risky decision
They thought about opening a cafe for years before they finally took the plunge.
- Phrasetake the plunge
finally decide to do something important or risky
- 8
Sales decline
There was a sharp plunge in sales after the price increase.
- Patterna plunge in + amount/measure
a sudden big fall
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- plungenounverb
Forms
- plungedpast tenseverbnoun
- plunging-ing formverbnoun
- plungesverbnoun