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pump 1  (pŭmp)
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Tweet n. 1. A machine or device for raising, compressing, or transferring fluids. 2. Physiology A molecular mechanism for the active transport of ions or molecules across a cell membrane. 3. Physics Electromagnetic radiation used to raise atoms or molecules to a higher energy level. 4. Informal The heart. 5. Informal The place where consumers purchase gasoline. Used with the:gas prices rising at the pump. v.pumped, pump·ing, pumps v.tr. 1. To cause to flow by means of a pump or pumplike organ or device:Derricks pumped oil out of the ground. The heart pumps blood throughout the body. 2. To draw, deliver, or pour forth:a writer who pumped out a new novel every year. 3. To propel, eject, or insert:pumped new life into the economy. 4. To cause to move with an up-and-down or back-and-forth motion:a bicyclist pumping the pedals; a piston pumping a shaft. 5. To push or pull (a brake or lever, for instance) rapidly:a driver pumping the brakes. 6. To shoot (bullets, for example) at or into:a gunner pumping rounds at a target. 7. Physics To raise (atoms or molecules) to a higher energy level by exposing them to electromagnetic radiation at a resonant frequency. 8. Physiology To transport (ions or molecules) against a concentration gradient by the expenditure of chemically stored energy. 9. To invest (money) repeatedly or persistently in something. 10. To question closely or persistently:pump a witness for secret information. 11. Informal To promote or publicize vigorously:The company pumped its new product on its website. v.intr. Phrasal Verb: 1. To operate a pump. 2. To move gas or liquid with a pump or a pumplike organ or device. 3. To move up and down or back and forth in a vigorous manner:My legs were pumping as I ran up the stairs. 4. To flow in spurts:Blood was pumping from the wound. 5. Sports To fake a throw, pass, or shot by moving the arm or arms without releasing the ball. pump up Idiom: 1. To inflate with gas by means of a pump:pump up a tire. 2. Slang To fill with enthusiasm, strength, or energy:The lively debate really pumped us up. 3. Sports To be actively involved in a bodybuilding program:athletes pumping up at the gym. pump ironSports To lift weights. [Middle Englishpumpe.] pumpern.  (click for a larger image) pump1top: jet pump bottom: centrifugal pump |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
n. A shoe that has a closed back and is cut low around the toes, usually with heels and no fastenings. [Origin unknown.] |
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition copyright ©2022 by HarperCollins Publishers. All rights reserved.
