ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sinking

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈsɪŋkɪŋ// UK //sˈɪŋkɪŋ// sink·ing
SIMPLE

The sinking of the ship was a terrible tragedy.

CONTEXTUAL

Historians are still studying the sinking of the Titanic to understand why the safety measures failed.

COMPLEX

The rapid sinking of the foundation caused significant structural damage to the historic building, forcing an immediate evacuation of all residents.

Origin

From sink + -ing.

Usage

Often used with 'of' to specify the object that is descending or becoming submerged.

Idioms1 entry

© 2026 English Reference