plunger

noun

plung·er ˈplən-jər

: one that plunges: such as

: diver

: 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

: 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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Throw a plunger at a Target sign. — Assistant Editor, Los Angeles Times, 29 May 2026 Press the plunger down and pour for a double shot or two single shots of espresso. — Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2026 But the plumbing problem isn't just a question of a plunger and some elbow grease. — Steve Walsh, NPR, 4 June 2026 Finding a plunger to unclog this Dodgers offense starts with its stars. — Fabian Ardaya, New York Times, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for plunger

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of plunger was in 1611

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Plunger.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plunger. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

plunger

noun

plung·er ˈplən-jər

: one that plunges: as

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

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

plunger

noun

Examples of plunger in a Sentence

Word History

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Kids Definition

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