noun
sump
suhmp
Sump (noun) means a pit or low point where liquid collects and drains away. Example: “Rainwater collects in the sump at the base of the tunnel.”
noun
1
A pit or low point where liquid collects and drains away.
"Rainwater collects in the sump at the base of the tunnel."
2
In a car engine, the reservoir at the bottom that holds the oil.
"The mechanic drained the oil from the sump before replacing the filter."
"A cracked sump can leak oil all over the driveway."
How to use sump
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA low collection point for liquid — in plumbing, mining, or a car's engine.
Common pairings
sump pump
oil sump
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Word forms
- Plural
- sumps
- Third person singular
- sumps
- Past tense
- sumped
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Rainwater collects in the _____ at the base of the tunnel.
Etymology
From Middle English sompe, related to Dutch and Low German words for a marshy pit — a doublet of the word swamp.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for sump
See all rhymes for sump →Frequently asked questions
What does “sump” mean?
The word “sump” means a pit or low point where liquid collects and drains away. In plain terms, a low collection point for liquid — in plumbing, mining, or a car's engine.
How do you pronounce “sump”?
“Sump” is pronounced suhmp (/sʌmp/ in IPA).
How do you use “sump” in a sentence?
Here is “sump” used in a sentence: “Rainwater collects in the sump at the base of the tunnel.”
What part of speech is “sump”?
“Sump” is a noun.
Where does the word “sump” come from?
The word “sump” comes from Middle English. From Middle English sompe, related to Dutch and Low German words for a marshy pit — a doublet of the word swamp.
How many meanings does “sump” have?
“Sump” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a pit or low point where liquid collects and drains away.
