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.
Everything from mountain biking and kayaking, hiking and horseback riding will immerse travelers among the vivid trees. — Jessica Puckett, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Sep. 2026 Serving in another field or capacity, pursuing a hobby or getting immersed in a new discipline or art, especially for those in creative spaces, can impart unique and valuable perspectives that inform one’s whole approach to work. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026 Vacation Homes and Looking Ahead Comporta Vacation Homes, Le Collectionist, and Airbnb have some of the best options for groups and families who want to fully immerse themselves in the local scene. — Mattie Kahn, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026 The movie is the first that was shot entirely on Imax film, known for its high-quality picture that, when shown on an Imax screen, is designed to immerse audiences in a superior viewing experience. — Kamaron McNair Lee, CNBC, 29 Aug. 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 4 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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