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Definition of "pump" []

  • A machine or device for raising, compressing, or transferring fluids. (noun)
  • Physiology A molecular mechanism for the active transport of ions or molecules across a cell membrane. (noun)
  • Physics Electromagnetic radiation used to raise atoms or molecules to a higher energy level. (noun)
  • Informal The heart. (noun)
  • To raise or cause to flow by means of a pump. (verb-transitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "pump" in a sentence
  • "In many cases it is desirable to force water considerably above the pump itself, as, for instance, in the fire hose; under such circumstances a type of pump is employed which has received the name of _force pump_."
  • "For this reason the pump has received the name of _lifting pump_."
  • "After speaking with Manny about designing accessories for those on the pump, we thought it would be a great idea to start a group of 'Think Tankers' who would share their wants, needs and features they'd like to see in accessories for those who pump*"