WordGarden.iosplash
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /splˈæʃ/
US
- /ˈsplæʃ/
Meanings
Verb
to scatter liquid around, or to move in liquid so it scatters
to give a story, image, or name very prominent display, especially in the news
Noun
an act or result of liquid scattering or striking a surface
a small amount or patch added for effect, especially of liquid or color
Beyond the definition
A splash usually happens when something hits water or another liquid and sends drops outward. Think of a stone falling into a quiet lake or a child jumping into a pool. It can be the sound, the movement, or the burst of water itself. But "splash" is not just about water. It can also mean a small but noticeable bit of color, like a splash of red in a painting, or a small amount of liquid, like a splash of milk in coffee.
It also has a figurative side. If a person, event, or story makes a splash, it gets a lot of attention. So the word often carries a feeling of energy, movement, and something hard to miss.
A splash most commonly refers to the sound and visual effect of something striking liquid, usually water, with force. Imagine diving into a swimming pool—the resulting burst of water is a splash! It's more than just getting wet; it's about the energy and disruption of that impact. "The children were giggling as they made a huge splash in the paddling pool."
However, "splash" has expanded beyond literal watery impacts. It can describe a sudden, noticeable display of something else entirely. A painter might add a "splash of color" to their canvas, meaning a bold and vibrant accent. A news story about a celebrity scandal might be described as making a "big splash" in the media—meaning it generated significant attention and excitement.
Figuratively, to "splash out" means to spend money freely on something luxurious or enjoyable: "They splashed out on a fancy dinner to celebrate their anniversary." You can also use "splash" to describe a small amount of liquid added to something: "a splash of milk in your coffee."
So whether it's the sound of waves, a vibrant color accent, a media sensation, or a celebratory splurge, "splash" evokes a sense of suddenness, energy, and impact. It's about making an impression—one way or another!
Examples
- 1
Pool play
The children were splashing in the shallow end of the pool.
- 2
Waking up
She splashed cold water on her face to wake herself up.
- 3
Road puddle
A car sped through the puddle and splashed mud over my jeans.
- 4
Small amount
I like tea with just a splash of milk.
- Phrasea splash of
a small amount of liquid
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Water sound
There was a loud splash when the stone hit the water.
- 6
Art
Bright blue paint was splashed across the canvas.
- 7
Public news
His photo was splashed across the front page after the scandal.
- Phrasebe splashed across the front page
be shown very publicly and noticeably
- 8
Product launch
The new app made a splash when it launched.
- Phrasemake a splash
get a lot of attention
- 9
Luxury spending
They splashed out on a hotel with a sea view.
- Patternsplash out on + expensive thing
spend a lot of money on it
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- splashnounverb
Forms
- splashing-ing formverbnoun
- splashedpast tenseverbnoun
- splashespluralnounverb