Pronunciation: [plˈʌnd͡ʒɪz] (IPA) 
The word "plunges" is spelled with the letter combination "pl" which represents the consonant blend /pl/. The next letter, "u," is pronounced as the vowel sound /ʌ/. The "ng" combination represents the nasal consonant sound /ŋ/. The final three letters are pronounced with the consonant blend /dʒɪz/. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is transcribed as /plʌndʒɪz/. "Plunges" means to fall or dive suddenly and quickly.
Plunges, as a noun or verb, refers to sudden or rapid movements or actions characterized by a sharp downward or forward motion.
As a verb, plunges can refer to diving or jumping headfirst into water, often with force or velocity. It can also describe an act of forcefully thrusting an object into a liquid, such as immersing a tool or object quickly and deeply. In a figurative sense, plunges can imply the act of taking a risk or engaging in something with intensity or determination, often without hesitating or considering consequences. It can also describe a sudden descent or decline in a situation or condition, such as experiencing a drop in value, quality, or success.
As a noun, plunges can refer to the act or instance of diving into water or diving headfirst. It can also pertain to a sudden dip or steep drop in a financial market, stock value, or business performance. Additionally, plunges can describe a rapid or violent descent, either physically or metaphorically, such as a steep fall from a height or a sudden decrease in speed while traveling.
Overall, whether used as a verb or noun, "plunges" describes actions or movements characterized by a swift and forceful downward or forward motion, often associated with risk, intensity, or sudden drops.
The word "plunges" is the third person singular form of the verb "plunge", which originated from Old French "plongier" or "plonger". The Old French word can be traced back to the Latin word "plumbicare", which means "to plunge" or "to dive". The Latin word itself derived from "plumbus", meaning "lead", indicating the act of diving or sinking swiftly.
