Tank

Definition

Tank refers to a large container for storing liquids or gases, or an armored military vehicle designed for combat. It can also be used as a verb meaning to fail or decline sharply.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tæŋk/
• Respelling: tank

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tæŋk/
• Respelling: tank

Etymology

The word "tank" originates from the Gujarati "ṭāṅkhī," meaning "cistern" or "reservoir," which entered English in the late 17th century. During World War I, the term was adopted to describe armored military vehicles, as their development was disguised under the term "water tanks."

Derivatives

• Tanker (noun)
• Tankful (noun)
• Tankage (noun)
• Tankless (adjective)
• Tank-like (adjective)

Synonyms

• Reservoir
• Container
• Armored vehicle

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "tank" is widely used to refer to storage containers or military vehicles. For example, "The water tank supplies the entire building."

As a verb, "tank" can describe a sudden decline or failure. For example, "The company’s stock tanked after the disappointing earnings report."

Related Terms

• Cistern: A tank for storing water, typically underground.
• Barrel: A cylindrical container often used for liquids.
• Armored vehicle: A broad term for vehicles designed for combat protection.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large container for storing liquids or gases: Used for water, fuel, or other substances.
  • Example: "The fuel tank of the car needs to be refilled."
• An armored military vehicle: Designed for combat, equipped with heavy weaponry and strong defenses.
  • Example: "The army deployed several tanks to the battlefield."

Verb

• To fail or decline sharply: Refers to a sudden and significant drop in performance or value.
  • Example: "His business tanked during the economic downturn."
• To deliberately lose or underperform (informal): Often used in the context of sports or competitions.
  • Example: "The team was accused of tanking to get a better draft pick."