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/plunj/, v., plunged, plunging, n.v.t.1. to cast or thrust forcibly or suddenly into something, as a liquid, a penetrable substance, a place, etc.; immerse; submerge: to plunge a dagger into one's heart.2. to bring suddenly or forcibly into some condition, situation, etc.: to plunge a country into war; to pull a switch and plunge a house into darkness.3. Hort. to place (a potted plant) up to its rim in soil or in certain other materials, as sand or moss.4. Survey. to transit (the telescope of a transit or theodolite).v.i.5. to cast oneself, or fall as if cast, into water, a hole, etc.6. to rush or dash with headlong haste: to plunge through a crowd.7. to bet or speculate recklessly: to plunge on the stock market.8. to throw oneself impetuously or abruptly into some condition, situation, matter, etc.: to plunge into debt.9. to descend abruptly or precipitously, as a cliff, road, etc.10. to pitch violently forward, as a horse, ship, etc.n.11. act of plunging.12. a leap or dive, as into water.13. a headlong or impetuous rush or dash: a plunge into danger.14. a sudden, violent pitching movement.15. a place for plunging or diving, as a swimming pool.16. Geol. pitch (def. 48).17. take the plunge, to enter with sudden decision upon an unfamiliar course of action, as after hesitation or deliberation: She took the plunge and invested her entire savings in the plan.[1325-75; ME < MF plung(i)er VL *plumbicare to heave the lead. See PLUMB]
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Universalium. 2010.
