diver
UK: ˈdaɪvə | US: ˈdaɪvər
n. a person who dives, especially as a sport or profession
n. a bird or other animal that dives underwater
n. (informal) a sandwich made with long bread rolls, typically containing cold meats and vegetables
The word "diver" originates from the verb "dive," which comes from Old English dȳfan ("to dip, immerse") and Proto-Germanic dūbijaną ("to dive"). The suffix "-er" is an agentive suffix in English, used to form nouns indicating a person or thing that performs an action. Thus, "diver" literally means "one who dives." The term has been used since the 16th century to describe individuals who plunge into water, later extending to birds (e.g., loons) and colloquial terms like the sandwich (likely referencing its "plunging" ingredients).
The professional diver explored the coral reef with ease.
A loon is a skilled diver, hunting fish underwater.
He ordered a turkey diver for lunch at the deli.
The rescue diver saved the stranded swimmer.
Scuba divers must undergo rigorous training for deep-sea exploration.