# plop

/ˈpɫɑp/ (US) · /plˈɒp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/plop
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

to drop or fall with a soft, dull sound, like a stone into water. You also use it when someone sits down heavily.

For teachers: to fall, drop, or set something down with a soft, dull sound suggesting impact with liquid or a soft surface. Often implies suddenness or heaviness rather than force.

## Examples

- She plops down on the sofa after work.
- He plops the ice cubes into the glass and hears them crack as the warm tea hits.
- The pebble plops into the still pond, sending slow rings outward while the dog watches from the bank.

## Synonyms

flop, drop, Slump, plonk, plunk

## Usage notes

- Can be transitive or intransitive; often paired with 'down', 'into', or 'onto'.

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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.