The term “bottom out” is used in various contexts, ranging from finance to automotive engineering. It refers to a situation where something reaches its lowest point or hits rock bottom. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bottom out, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and associations.
Definitions
The phrase “bottom out” has several meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are some definitions:
- In finance, bottoming out refers to the point where a market or stock has reached its lowest price and is expected to rise again.
- In automotive engineering, bottoming out refers to the suspension system of a vehicle hitting the lowest point of its travel, causing the wheels to lose contact with the road.
- In psychology, bottoming out refers to a state of emotional or mental exhaustion, where an individual feels like they have hit rock bottom and can no longer cope with their situation.
Origin
The origin of the phrase “bottom out” is uncertain. However, it is believed to have originated in the United States during the early 20th century. The term was initially used in the context of mining, where it referred to the point where miners had reached the lowest level of a mine.
Meaning in different dictionaries
Here are some definitions of “bottom out” from different dictionaries:
- Merriam-Webster: to reach a low point and begin to rise or recover.
- Oxford English Dictionary: to reach the lowest point and start to rise again.
- Cambridge English Dictionary: to reach the lowest point before starting to improve or increase again.
Associations
The term “bottom out” is often associated with negative situations or events. Some common associations include financial crises, emotional breakdowns, and automotive accidents.
Synonyms
There are several synonyms for “bottom out,” including:
- Hit rock bottom.
- Reach the lowest point.
- Plummet.
- Decline.
- Collapse.
- Sink.
- Fall.
Antonyms
The antonyms of “bottom out” include:
- Recover.
- Improve.
- Rise.
- Climb.
- Ascend.
- Rally.
The same root words
The phrase “bottom out” does not have any root words. However, it is made up of two words, “bottom” and “out,” which have their own meanings.
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences that use the phrase “bottom out”:
- The stock market has bottomed out, and investors are starting to buy again.
- The car hit a speed bump, and the suspension bottomed out, causing the wheels to lose contact with the road.
- After months of depression, John finally bottomed out and sought help from a therapist.