plunger

[ pluhn-jer ]

noun

1. Machinery. a pistonlike reciprocating part moving within the cylinder of a pump or hydraulic device.
2. Automotive. a pistonlike part in the valve of a pneumatic tire.
3. Also called force cup, a device consisting of a handle with a rubber suction cup at one end, used as a force pump to free clogged drains and toilet traps.
4. a person or thing that plunges.
5. a reckless bettor or speculator.

plunger

/ ˈplʌndʒə /

noun

1. a rubber suction cup fixed to the end of a rod, used to clear blocked drains
2. a device or part of a machine that has a plunging or thrusting motion; piston
3. informal.
   a reckless gambler

Word History and Origins

Origin of plunger¹

First recorded in 1605–15; plunge + -er ¹

Example Sentences

Pull the plunger of the syringe all the way out, and insert a marshmallow.

From National Geographic Kids

Suck out the air by pulling the plunger.

From National Geographic Kids

“We wanted to, you know, really roll with it,” said Zach D’Angelo, dressed as a giant roll of toilet paper with a red plunger as his hat.

From New York Times

Pull the plunger of the syringe all the way out, and insert a marshmallow.

From National Geographic Kids

Suck out the air by pulling the plunger.

From National Geographic Kids

Related Words

• bettor
• bookie
• bookmaker