What does "drowning" mean?

1. (death in water) an event where a person or animal dies because they are underwater and cannot breathe. 2. (overwhelmed) having so much of something that you cannot cope with it.

How do you use "drowning"?

Often used with the preposition 'in'.

drowning

n. · v.

US //ˈdɹaʊnɪŋ// UK //dɹˈaʊnɪŋ// drown·ing

1 death in water (n.)
B1 Intermediate Medicine

an event where a person or animal dies because they are underwater and cannot breathe.

the process or instance of death caused by the inhalation of liquid, preventing the lungs from absorbing oxygen.

Example

The lifeguard saved the child from drowning in the deep end of the pool.

Example

The local council implemented stricter safety protocols at the lake following a tragic accidental drowning during the summer festival.
- submersion
- asphyxiation
2 overwhelmed (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

having so much of something that you cannot cope with it.

a metaphorical use describing the state of being completely overwhelmed by a metaphorical 'flood' of work, debt, or emotion.

Example

I am drowning in paperwork and don't think I can finish it today.

Example

Small businesses in the region are currently drowning in debt due to the unexpected rise in energy costs and supply chain disruptions.

Usage

Often used with the preposition 'in'.