dive

Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/daɪv/

Definitions

• (Verb) To plunge headfirst into water.
• (Verb) To descend rapidly, especially in the air.
• (Noun) A sudden downward plunge or fall.
• (Noun) A disreputable or low-quality place, such as a bar.

Usage Examples

• She decided to dive into the pool to cool off.
• The airplane began to dive sharply towards the ground.
• They went to a small dive on the corner for dinner.
• The football player made a dive to catch the ball.

Etymology

Derived from Old English *dyfan*, meaning to dip or submerge, with roots in Germanic languages.

Synonyms

• Plunge
• Submerge
• Descend
• Plummet
• Tavern

Antonyms

• Rise
• Ascend
• Soar
• Climb
• Elevate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /daɪv/
• American English: /daɪv/
• Australian English: /daɪv/

Historical Usage

Initially referred to plunging into water, later extended to describe rapid descents and disreputable places.

Cultural Nuances

In American English, the term 'dive' is often used to describe a cheap, low-quality bar or nightclub.

More Information

The word 'dive' has evolved from its literal sense of plunging into water to metaphorical uses in sports, aviation, and social contexts.