ertränken

ertränken is a German verb that translates to "to drown" in English. It describes the act of dying or being killed by submersion in water or another liquid. The verb can be used in both active and passive voice, indicating the agent causing the drowning or the state of being drowned. For example, "Er ertränkte sich" means "He drowned himself," while "Das Kind ertrank im Fluss" means "The child drowned in the river."

The term can also be used figuratively to describe being overwhelmed by something, such as emotions or work. For instance, "Sie ertrank in Sorgen" translates to "She was drowning in worries." The concept of drowning is a recurring theme in literature and art, often symbolizing helplessness, despair, or a loss of control. In a legal context, drowning can be a cause of death and is subject to investigation. Medical professionals also study the physiological effects of drowning to understand how the body reacts to a lack of oxygen caused by submersion. The verb itself is derived from the Old High German word "ertrinken," which has similar roots relating to water and sinking.