English Reference
noun · adjective

dripping

n. · adj.
US /ˈdɹɪpɪŋ/ UK /dɹˈɪpɪŋ/ drip·ping UK spelling drippings

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.the sound or action of liquid falling in small drops.

    n.the continuous action or sound of liquid falling in discrete drops.

    Simple

    The constant dripping of the kitchen tap kept me awake all night.

    In context

    The rhythmic dripping from the stalactites echoed through the cavern, marking the slow passage of time in the damp darkness.

    Usage

    Often used in the singular with the definite article to describe a persistent sound.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate British English Cooking

    n.the fat that comes out of meat while it is roasting, often saved for cooking.

    n.the fat and juices that draw off meat during roasting, traditionally collected for use as a cooking medium or spread.

    Simple

    My grandmother used to roast potatoes in beef dripping to make them extra crispy.

    In context

    The chef carefully strained the pork dripping into a ceramic jar, intending to use it for the following day's confit.

    Usage

    Uncountable when referring to the substance; sometimes used in the plural to refer to the juices in the pan.

    lardtallow
  3. 03 B1 Intermediate

    adj.extremely wet, so that liquid is falling off in drops.

    adj.saturated with liquid to the point of overflow; typically used as a pre-modifier or with 'wet'.

    Simple

    He came inside out of the rain, his coat dripping wet.

    In context

    The athletes emerged from the pool dripping and exhausted, their towels barely able to soak up the excess water.

    Usage

    Commonly functions as an adverbial intensifier in the phrase 'dripping wet'.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated