ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pumping

v. · n.
US //ˈpəmpɪŋ// UK //pˈʌmpɪŋ// pump·ing
  1. 1 moving liquid or gas (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    moving water, air, or gas from one place to another using a machine.

    the action of moving fluids or gases via a mechanical device or biological organ.

    Example

    The machine was pumping water out of the flooded basement all night.

    Example

    The heart is responsible for pumping oxygenated blood through the entire circulatory system to sustain vital organ function.

    Usage

    often used with 'out', 'in', or 'through'
  2. 2 moving up and down (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    moving something up and down or in and out very quickly and repeatedly.

    moving a limb or object in a rhythmic, vigorous up-and-down or back-and-forth motion.

    Example

    He was pumping his fist in the air to celebrate the goal.

    Example

    The cyclist was pumping her legs furiously as she approached the final steep incline of the mountain stage.
  3. 3 the act of using a pump (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the process or activity of using a pump to move something.

    the mechanical or physical act of operating a pump or performing a pumping motion.

    Example

    The loud pumping of the engine made it hard to hear the conversation.

    Example

    Continuous pumping was required to prevent the excavation site from being overwhelmed by groundwater during the rainy season.

Last updated June 20, 2026