immersion

noun

im·​mer·​sion i-ˈmər-zhən How to pronounce immersion (audio)
-shən
: the act of immersing or the state of being immersed: such as
a
: absorbing involvement
immersion in politics
b
: instruction based on extensive exposure to surroundings or conditions that are native or pertinent to the object of study
especially : foreign language instruction in which only the language being taught is used
learned French through immersion
c
: baptism by complete submersion of the person in water

Examples of immersion in a Sentence

We were surprised by his complete immersion in the culture of the island. He learned French through immersion. I'm taking an immersion course in German.
Recent Examples on the Web Our four-night stay at Maroma, a 72-room oasis along the Riviera Maya, was filled with many moments of delight such as this — and proved to be a true immersion into the colors and joy of Mexico. Jacqui Gifford, Travel + Leisure, 9 Apr. 2024 An immersion in living water is needed to complete the conversion process, but the nearest mikvah, about 60 miles away in Bangor, was closed at the time because of the pandemic. Jenna Russell Tristan Spinski, New York Times, 6 Apr. 2024 Sudden or prolonged immersion in hot water can elevate heart rate, causing cardiovascular stress depending on one’s condition. Jack Knudson, Discover Magazine, 26 Mar. 2024 Data showed English learners were not learning the language and falling behind academically under a more restrictive English immersion model. Daniel Gonzalez, The Arizona Republic, 20 Mar. 2024 As an island nation, Japan’s visitors are committing to a true cultural immersion of its varied landscapes and lifestyles. Roger Sands, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2024 From Tuesday, Michele will embark upon a total immersion within the archive and codes of his new home. Luke Leitch, Vogue, 28 Mar. 2024 His landscapes, teeming and abundant, communicate this desire for immersion. Sebastian Smee, Washington Post, 27 Mar. 2024 Twin Farms, Vermont One of New England's best nature immersions awaits on Twin Farms' 300 private acres in Vermont. Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 7 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'immersion.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of immersion was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near immersion

Cite this Entry

“Immersion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immersion. Accessed 18 Apr. 2024.

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