Sucking-in

The act of drawing something inwards, typically air or liquid, by applying suction. Often related to breathing or consuming a substance. This action can be voluntary or involuntary, and the context determines its specific meaning. It describes the process of taking something into a space, creating a negative pressure to achieve the intake. The intensity and manner of 'sucking-in' can vary considerably, from a gentle intake to a powerful draw. It also refers to a gesture, such as tensing muscles inwards to flatten the stomach.

Sucking-in meaning with examples

• The diver's lungs filled with air as they started sucking in the oxygen from their tank to explore deeper into the shipwreck. The cold water around the wreck created some difficulty, and the diver had to suck in the last bit of air before going under the water.
• The baby, hungry, began sucking in their mother's breast milk with a rhythmic, determined motion. The action provided nourishment, and the baby showed signs of satisfaction.
• After accidentally inhaling a bug, she started sucking in hard hoping to remove it. She coughed violently, but the discomfort slowly subsided.
• To fit into the dress, she had to suck in her stomach and hold her breath. This caused some discomfort but was seen as an important tactic to look presentable for the event.
• As the vacuum cleaner ran, the machine created a force, sucking in dust and debris from the carpet, leaving a clean path behind.