pumped
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
feeling very excited and full of energy for something that is about to happen.
experiencing a state of high enthusiasm, adrenaline, or anticipation.
Simple“The whole team is really pumped for the championship game tonight.”
In context“The marketing department was visibly pumped after the initial sales figures suggested the campaign would exceed its quarterly targets.”
UsageOften followed by the preposition 'for' or 'about'.
Teacher's tipThis is very common in spoken English but should be avoided in formal academic or business writing.
SynonymsAntonymsindifferentunexcited - 02 C1 Advanced
when your muscles look larger and tighter right after you have exercised.
referring to muscles in a temporary state of engorgement and increased definition following strenuous physical exertion.
Simple“He looked really pumped after spending an hour lifting weights at the gym.”
In context“Bodybuilders often aim to feel pumped before stepping onto the stage to ensure maximum muscular visibility under the spotlights.”
UsageCommonly used in fitness and bodybuilding contexts.
- 03 C2 Proficiency
feeling completely tired or worn out, especially after a long period of physical work.
physically exhausted or fatigued to the point of being unable to continue an activity.
Simple“After hiking up the mountain for six hours, I was totally pumped.”
In context“By the final set of the match, the player looked completely pumped, struggling to maintain his grip on the racket.”
Teacher's tipThis sense is less common than the 'excited' sense and is often specific to certain sports like rock climbing or rowing.
“He shared that air is being pumped in; if the weather allows, the rescue team will work through the night to make a hole large enough to fit a person.”