Language Research

dump · verb

/dʌmp/Full view

dump (GET RID OF)

C1 T to put something somewhere to get rid of it, especially in a place where you should not put it

Dictionary example:

The company was fined for illegally dumping toxic chemicals.

Learner example:

In addition, society might be affected negatively by the refuse and garbage dumped by people. (International English Language Testing System; C1; Ibo/Igbo)

dump sth on/in/down, etc.

C2 to put something somewhere quickly and carelessly

Dictionary example:

Henry dumped his bag on the table and went upstairs.

Learner example:

Annabel dumped her school bag on the floor and threw herself onto her bed. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; French)

dump (END RELATIONSHIP)

C2 to suddenly end a romantic relationship

Dictionary example:

If he's so awful, why don't you just dump him?

Learner example:

I had just been dumped by a guy I thought I was in love with. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Portuguese)

dump · noun C

/dʌmp/

dump (WASTE)

C1 a place where people take things that they do not want

Dictionary example:

We took our old mattress to the dump.

Learner example:

We all took turns loading it and driving it off to the city dump, in our private cars. (Certificate in Advanced English; C1; Swedish)

dump (MESSY PLACE)

C2 a place that is dirty and messy

Dictionary example:

His room is a dump.

be down in the dumps

C2 to be unhappy

Dictionary example:

He looks a bit down in the dumps.

Learner example:

She felt happy when I was down in the dumps or in a fix and kept on being jealous of me concerning trivial matters. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)