pump
pump Lexical Profile
pump Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A mechanical device using suction or pressure to raise or move liquids, compress gases, or force air into inflatable objects.
"The farmer installed a new water pump to irrigate the fields more efficiently."
A light, low-cut shoe without fastenings, typically worn by women for formal occasions or by dancers.
"She wore a pair of classic black pumps to the corporate gala."
A physiological state achieved during intense weightlifting where the muscles become temporarily engorged with blood.
"After three sets of bicep curls, he had a massive pump."
• verb
To force a liquid, gas, or air to move in a specific direction by means of a mechanical device.
"The heart acts as an engine to pump oxygenated blood throughout the body."
To move vigorously up and down.
"The crowd began to pump their fists in the air as the band played their hit song."
To question someone persistently and intensely in order to extract hidden information.
"The reporters tried to pump the witness for details about the confidential settlement."
• Rhymes for pump
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The mechanical sense (early 16th century) likely derives from Middle Dutch 'pompe' or Middle Low German 'pumpe', probably of imitative origin reflecting the sound of a plunger in water. The footwear sense (mid-16th century) is of unknown origin.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.