Pumping

pump ¹  (pmp)

n.

1. A machine or device for raising, compressing, or transferring fluids.

2. Physiology A molecular mechanism for the active transport of ions or molecules across a cell membrane.

3. Physics Electromagnetic radiation used to raise atoms or molecules to a higher energy level.

4. Informal The heart.

v. pumped, pump·ing, pumps

v.tr.

1. To raise or cause to flow by means of a pump.

2. To draw, deliver, or pour forth as if with a pump.

3. To remove the water from: pump out a flooded basement.

4. To cause to move with the up-and-down motion of a pump handle: a bicyclist pumping the pedals.

5. To propel, eject, or insert with or as if with a pump: pumped new life into the economy.

6. Physics To raise (atoms or molecules) to a higher energy level by exposing them to electromagnetic radiation at a resonant frequency.

7. Physiology To transport (ions or molecules) against a concentration gradient by the expenditure of chemically stored energy.

8. To question closely or persistently: pump a witness for secret information.

v.intr.

1. To operate a pump.

2. To raise or move gas or liquid with a pump.

3. To move up and down in the manner of a pump handle.

4. Sports To fake a throw, pass, or shot by moving the arm or arms without releasing the ball.

Phrasal Verb:

pump up

1. To inflate with gas by means of a pump: pump up a tire.

2. Slang To fill with enthusiasm, strength, and energy: The lively debate really pumped us up.

3. Sports To be actively involved in a bodybuilding program: athletes pumping up at the gym.

Idiom:

pump iron Sports

To lift weights.

---

[Middle English pumpe.]

---

pumper n.

---

pump ²  (pmp)

n.

A woman's shoe that has medium or high heels and no fastenings.

---

[Origin unknown.]