plunger

noun

plung·​er ˈplən-jər 

: one that plunges: such as

a

: diver

b

: a reckless gambler or speculator

c(1)

: a sliding reciprocating piece driven by or against fluid pressure

especially : piston

(2)

: a piece with a motion like that of a ram or piston

d

: a rubber suction cup on a handle used to free plumbing traps and waste outlets of obstructions

Examples of plunger in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One press of the plunger makes a big thermal mug or two regular mugs of coffee. —Joe Ray, WIRED, 19 July 2023

Perfect for fancy dessert parties or fancier coffee bars, the new press features a crystal-clear handblown glass outer tube complemented by an anodized aluminum plunger and stainless steel filter cap. —New Atlas, 2 Oct. 2024

Once the tube is inside the uterus, the provider will push the IUD into the uterus with a plunger and remove the tube. —Carrie Madormo, Rn, Mph, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2024

Press down on the plunger to create a tight suction. —Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 20 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

plunger

noun

plung·​er ˈplən-jər 

: one that plunges: as

a

: a device (as a piston in a pump) that acts with a plunging motion

b

: a rubber suction cup on a handle used to free plumbing traps and waste outlets of something blocking them