# lunged

/ˈɫəndʒd/ (US) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lunged
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

to jump or move forward suddenly to grab, hit, or catch something. 'Lunged' is the past form, so you use it when the move already happened.

For teachers: the past tense of 'lunge'; to thrust the body suddenly forward, typically to attack, seize, or intercept.

## Examples

- He lunged forward to catch the falling ball.
- The goalkeeper lunged to his left and blocked the penalty kick in the final minute.
- Without warning, the dog lunged at the fence, barking fiercely as the postman stepped closer to the gate.

## Usage notes

- Intransitive; often followed by 'at', 'for', 'toward' or 'forward' to mark the target or direction.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.