douse

Definition

To plunge suddenly into water; to duck; to immerse.

Etymology

Probably of North Germanic origin, related to Swedish dunsa (“to plumb down, fall clumsily”), Danish dunse (“to thump”). Compare Old English dwǣsċan (“to extinguish”) and douse below.

Example Sentences

• "Set fire to your matches! / Douse them in gasoline!"
• "swing i' th'air, or douse in water"
• "The man who doused the fire was told to put the remainder of the coal into the bucket and then give the bucket to the soldier."