English Reference
noun · verb

drowning

n. · v.
US /ˈdɹaʊnɪŋ/ UK /dɹˈaʊnɪŋ/ drown·ing UK spelling drownings

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Medicine

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    The local council implemented stricter safety protocols at the lake following a tragic accidental drowning during the summer festival.

    submersionasphyxiation
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    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'.

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated