noun

plunger

PLUHND-zhuh

Plunger (noun) means a rubber suction tool used to clear blocked drains or toilets. Example: “He grabbed the plunger when the toilet backed up.”

noun

A rubber suction tool used to clear blocked drains or toilets.

"He grabbed the plunger when the toilet backed up."

The part of a syringe or cafetière that is pushed down to push out contents or press grounds.

"She pushed the plunger down slowly on the cafetière."

How to use plunger

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA tool for unblocking drains, or the pushed-down part of a syringe or coffee press.

Common pairings

use a plunger press the plunger

Word forms

plungers plural

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He grabbed the _____ when the toilet backed up.

Etymology

Formed from "plunge" plus the agent suffix "-er".

Synonyms

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plumber's helper plumber's friend

Rhymes for plunger

Unger hunger younger

See all rhymes for plunger →

Frequently asked questions

What does “plunger” mean?

The word “plunger” means a rubber suction tool used to clear blocked drains or toilets. In plain terms, a tool for unblocking drains, or the pushed-down part of a syringe or coffee press.

How do you pronounce “plunger”?

“Plunger” is pronounced PLUHND-zhuh (/ˈplʌnd͡ʒɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “plunger” in a sentence?

Here is “plunger” used in a sentence: “He grabbed the plunger when the toilet backed up.”

What is another word for “plunger”?

Words with a similar meaning to “plunger” include plumber's helper and plumber's friend.

What part of speech is “plunger”?

“Plunger” is a noun.

How many meanings does “plunger” have?

“Plunger” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rubber suction tool used to clear blocked drains or toilets.