Definition of sunken

The origin of the word "sunken" can be traced back to the Old English word "suncan," which meant "to sink." The Old English word "suncan" was derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sunkan," which meant "to sink, set." This root word can also be found in other Germanic languages, such as German "senken" and Dutch "zinken." In Middle English, the word "sunken" became "sunkyn," and it retained its sinking or setting meaning. By the 16th century, the spelling had changed to "sunken," and it carried the same meaning of being submerged or sinking below the surface. Today, the word "sunken" is commonly used to describe anything that has been submerged under water, such as ships, cities, or treasures. It is also used to describe features in the landscape that appear to be set below the surrounding area, such as sinkholes or sunken roads. Overall, the word "sunken" still maintains its connection to the idea of sinking, whether it be in the water or in the earth.