How Do You Spell PLUMB?

Pronunciation: [plˈʌm] (IPA)

The word "plumb" is often misspelled due to its irregular pronunciation. The correct spelling, /plʌm/, consists of four letters, but only the first two letters are pronounced as they appear. The final "b" is silent, which can lead to confusion when writing the word. Additionally, the vowel sound is pronounced as a short "u," rather than a long "u" as in the word "flute." Remembering the IPA phonetic transcription, /plʌm/, can help in the correct spelling and pronunciation of this word.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
Similar spelling words
Plural
Conjugate verb
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PLUMB Meaning and Definition

  1. Plumb can be used as both a noun and a verb, having multiple meanings depending on how it is employed.

    As a noun, plumb refers to a weight attached to a line, used for determining vertical depth or alignment. This weight, typically made of lead, serves as a vertical reference point while measuring the depth of water or the straightness of a wall. Additionally, the term is also used to describe the act of fishing with a weighted line.

    When used as a verb, plumb denotes the action of ascertaining the verticality of an object or aligning it properly. It requires the use of a plumb line, string, or level to precisely determine whether an object is perpendicular to the ground or if it deviates from being straight. Therefore, plumb can indicate the process of adjusting or aligning objects or structures so that they are perfectly vertical or true.

    Beyond these technical meanings, plumb can also be used metaphorically. For instance, it can describe the act of understanding or penetrating deeply into something, especially regarding probing to uncover the underlying truth or essence. This figurative usage suggests a thorough exploration or investigation into a subject matter to achieve a comprehensive understanding.

    Overall, plumb encompasses different applications and is utilized both literally and metaphorically to describe the vertical alignment of objects, measuring depth, fishing, and the act of deeply understanding or exploring a topic.

  2. A mass of lead attached to a line, and so hung as to ascertain whether a wall be perpendicular.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PLUMB

Etymology of PLUMB

The word "plumb" has its origin in the Latin word "plumbum", which means "lead". The connection between "plumb" and "lead" comes from the use of a weighted tool made of lead called a "plumb bob" which is used in determining verticality or checking for alignment. The word "plumbum" was later adapted into Old French as "plom" and then into Middle English as "plume", finally evolving into the word "plumb" as we know it today.

Idioms with the word PLUMB

  • plumb the depths To "plumb the depths" is an idiomatic expression that means to explore, investigate, or experience the lowest or most extreme points or aspects of a situation, emotion, or condition. It refers to delving into the profound or darkest depths of something.
  • plumb the depths (of something) The idiom "plumb the depths (of something)" means to explore or investigate the very bottom or deepest parts of a particular subject, situation, or emotion. It often implies delving into the darkest or most challenging aspects in order to understand or uncover something completely.
  • half a bubble off plumb The idiom "half a bubble off plumb" refers to someone who is slightly eccentric, strange, or not quite right mentally or socially. It originates from the use of a carpenter's level, where a bubble centered between two lines indicates balance or levelness. If the bubble is only halfway off-center or off-plumb, it signifies a slight deviation from normal or proper alignment. Thus, when applied to a person, "half a bubble off plumb" describes an individual who is somewhat odd or unconventional in their behavior, thinking, or mannerisms.
  • plumb new depths The idiom "plumb new depths" refers to the act of reaching even lower levels or standards, especially in terms of behavior, morals, or quality. It implies sinking to new, previously unimaginable lows.
  • plumb loco The idiom "plumb loco" is an informal expression used to describe someone who is completely crazy or insane. It implies that the person is behaving in an irrational or nonsensical manner. The word "plumb" in this context means "completely" or "thoroughly," while "loco" is derived from the Spanish word for "crazy" or "mad." Therefore, "plumb loco" suggests that someone is extremely, utterly, or entirely crazy.
  • out of plumb The idiom "out of plumb" refers to something that is not straight, vertical, or aligned properly. It originated from the construction industry, where "plumb" refers to a vertical alignment using a perpendicular line. When something is "out of plumb," it means it is leaning or tilted, deviating from the correct alignment or position. This idiom is often used metaphorically to describe situations or behaviors that are not in proper order or alignment.
  • plumb the depths (of sth) The idiom "plumb the depths (of something)" means to fully explore or penetrate the most extreme or profound aspects or aspects of something. It refers to delving deeply into a subject or situation to uncover its utmost or hidden depths.

Similar spelling words for PLUMB

Plural form of PLUMB is PLUMBS

Conjugate verb Plumb

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have plumbed
you would have plumbed
he/she/it would have plumbed
we would have plumbed
they would have plumbed
I would have plumb
you would have plumb
he/she/it would have plumb
we would have plumb
they would have plumb

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been plumbing
you would have been plumbing
he/she/it would have been plumbing
we would have been plumbing
they would have been plumbing

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would plumb
you would plumb
he/she/it would plumb
we would plumb
they would plumb

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be plumbing
you would be plumbing
he/she/it would be plumbing
we would be plumbing
they would be plumbing

FUTURE

I will plumb
you will plumb
he/she/it will plumb
we will plumb
they will plumb

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be plumbing
you will be plumbing
he/she/it will be plumbing
we will be plumbing
they will be plumbing

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have plumbed
you will have plumbed
he/she/it will have plumbed
we will have plumbed
they will have plumbed

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been plumbing
you will have been plumbing
he/she/it will have been plumbing
we will have been plumbing
they will have been plumbing

IMPERATIVE

you plumb
we let´s plumb

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to plumb

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was plumbing
you were plumbing
he/she/it was plumbing
we were plumbing
they were plumbing

PAST PARTICIPLE

plumbed

PAST PERFECT

I had plumbed
you had plumbed
he/she/it had plumbed
we had plumbed
they had plumbed

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been plumbing
you had been plumbing
he/she/it had been plumbing
we had been plumbing
they had been plumbing

PRESENT

I plumb
you plumb
he/she/it plumbs
we plumb
they plumb

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am plumbing
you are plumbing
he/she/it is plumbing
we are plumbing
they are plumbing

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

plumbing

PRESENT PERFECT

I have plumbed
you have plumbed
he/she/it has plumbed
we have plumbed
they have plumbed

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been plumbing
you have been plumbing
he/she/it has been plumbing
we have been plumbing
they have been plumbing

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it plumb

SIMPLE PAST

I plumbed
you plumbed
he/she/it plumbed
we plumbed
they plumbed

Infographic

Correct spelling for plumb
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