immerse

verb

im·​merse i-ˈmərs How to pronounce immerse (audio)
immersed; immersing
Synonyms of immerse

transitive verb

1
: to plunge into something that surrounds or covers
especially : to plunge or dip into a fluid
Immerse the fabric completely.
2
: engross, absorb
completely immersed in his work
3
: to baptize by immersion

Synonyms of immerse

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Examples of immerse in a Sentence

Immerse the fabric completely in the dye. She had immersed herself in writing short stories. He immersed himself in the culture of the island.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The best option is to immerse a heat stroke victim in cold water. — Scott Neuman, NPR, 29 July 2026 Founded by wine expert Julia Coney and luxury travel specialist Claire Soares, the company moves beyond transactional tastings, immersing small groups in local food, culture, and traditions, viewing wine as a lifestyle. — Taryn White, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The annual list of new UNESCO World Heritage Sites is a treasure trove of fascinating destinations for travelers looking to immerse themselves in some of the most culturally rich places on Earth. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 July 2026 The casitas are immersed in the lush landscape and most guests come to spend time on the crystal blue waters here, whether diving with sharks in Coiba National Park on the huge reef or sport fishing for red snapper. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for immerse

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin immersus, past participle of immergere, from in- + mergere to merge

First Known Use

1605, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of immerse was in 1605

Rhymes for immerse

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Browse Nearby Words

immersal
immerse
immersed wedge
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Immerse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immerse. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

immerse

verb
im·​merse im-ˈərs How to pronounce immerse (audio)
immersed; immersing
1
: to plunge into something (as a fluid) that surrounds or covers
2
: to become completely involved in
immersed in a good book
immersion
-ˈər-zhən, 
-shən
noun

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Nglish: Translation of immerse for Spanish Speakers

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