English Reference
adjective

submerged

adj.
US /səbˈmɝdʒd/ UK /səbmˈɜːdʒd/ sub·merged

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate

    completely under the surface of water or another liquid.

    positioned or remaining below the surface of a liquid, typically water.

    Simple

    The old bridge was completely submerged after the heavy rains caused the river to rise.

    In context

    Marine archaeologists discovered the remains of a submerged settlement that had been lost to rising sea levels thousands of years ago.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Literary

    hidden from view or kept out of sight, like a feeling or a secret.

    existing below the surface of conscious awareness or public view; obscured by a dominant layer.

    Simple

    He tried to ignore his submerged anger during the long meeting.

    In context

    The author explores the submerged tensions within the family that only become visible during times of extreme crisis.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency FormalAcademic

    living in very poor conditions, often hidden from the rest of society.

    referring to a social class or group living in extreme poverty and social marginalisation.

    Simple

    The government launched a new program to help the submerged population in the city's poorest districts.

    In context

    Sociologists often use the term to describe the submerged tenth of the population who remain trapped in a cycle of generational poverty.

Imagine the Western Plains of North America, from Texas to Alaska, submerged under a broad, shallow seaway.

Phys.org· 26 Aug 2026

Videos on social media show cars submerged in Geoje as strong currents swept the streets.

BBC News· 17 Aug 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated