Word
sunken
US/ˈsəŋkən/
UK/sˈʌŋkən/
Definition
adj. lower than the surface around it, or having fallen deep into something. You use this to describe things like eyes that look tired or ships that have gone to the bottom of the sea.
adj. situated at a lower level than the surrounding area; having fallen or settled deep into a surface. Often used to describe facial features affected by age or illness, or objects submerged in water.
Examples
“The divers found a sunken ship at the bottom of the lake.”
“After working three night shifts in a row, he had dark circles and sunken eyes.”
“The garden featured a sunken patio that provided a private, sheltered space for outdoor dining away from the wind.”
Examples
simple
“The divers found a sunken ship at the bottom of the lake.”
contextual
“After working three night shifts in a row, he had dark circles and sunken eyes.”
complex
“The garden featured a sunken patio that provided a private, sheltered space for outdoor dining away from the wind.”
Usage
Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun. While it originated as a past participle of 'sink', it now functions primarily as a descriptive adjective.
Real-World Examples
“The sunken ship was flying under the flag of Togo, he said.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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