sump
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.”
How to use sump
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA low collection point for liquid — in plumbing, mining, or a car's engine.
Word forms
sumped past tense, sumps plural, sumps singular
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.