pump

word

/ˈpəmp/
puhmp
/pˈʌmp/
puhmp

Definition

A pump is a machine or device that moves liquid, gas, or air from one place to another. As a verb, it means to move something using that kind of device, or sometimes to push something repeatedly.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for water, air, gas, and fuel: 'water pump', 'air pump', 'gas pump'. As a verb, common patterns include 'pump water out', 'pump air into', and figurative uses like 'pump money into a project'. Do not confuse it with 'bump' or with the less common noun meaning of a type of women's shoe.

Example Sentences

The pump moves water to the tank.

basic

We need to pump air into the tires.

basic

This old pump is not working well.

basic

They had to pump the water out of the basement after the storm.

natural

The company is pumping millions into new technology.

natural

I stopped at the gas station to pump some gas.

natural