splash

UK: /splæʃ/ | US: /splæʃ/

Definition

  1. n. the sound or action of liquid hitting a surface violently

  2. vt. to cause liquid to scatter in drops

  3. vi. to move through water noisily

Structure
spl <imitative sound of hitting liquid>ash <reduplicative suffix for sound/action>
Etymology

The word "splash" is onomatopoeic, imitating the sharp, sudden sound of liquid striking a surface. The "spl-" opening mimics the explosive burst (seen in similar words like "splatter"), while "-ash" reinforces the wet, crashing quality. First recorded in the 18th century, it retains its vivid sound symbolism.

Examples

  1. The stone made a loud splash when it hit the pond.

  2. Kids love to splash water at each other in the pool.

  3. Rain splashed against the windows all night.

  4. She accidentally splashed coffee on her white shirt.

  5. The dolphin splashed its tail playfully.