awash

UK: əˈwɒʃ | US: əˈwɑːʃ

Definition

  1. adj. 1. covered or flooded with water (often used figuratively).

  2. adj. 2. abundantly filled or oversupplied (e.g., with ideas, emotions, or objects).

Structure
a <prefix: in a state of>wash <to flow or cleanse with water>
Etymology

The word "awash" combines the Old English prefix "a-" (indicating a state or condition) with "wash," derived from Old English "wæscan" (to cleanse or flow over). Originally nautical, it described a ship submerged by waves. Over time, it expanded metaphorically to describe anything overwhelmed or saturated, retaining its vivid imagery of fluid inundation.

Examples

  1. The deck was awash after the storm.

  2. Her mind was awash with memories.

  3. The market is awash with cheap imitations.

  4. The streets were awash during the flood.

  5. The report left him awash in conflicting emotions.