Search results for 'tumble':

tumble verb (tumbled, tumbling) 1 tr & intr (often tumble down, over, etc) to fall or make someone or something fall headlong, especially suddenly or clumsily. 2 intrans to fall or collapse suddenly, especially in value or amount. 3 tr & intr (often tumble about, around, etc) to roll over and over or toss around helplessly • The kids tumbled around in the garden. 4 intrans to perform as an acrobat, especially turning somersaults. 5 intrans to move or rush in a confused hasty way • tumble out of the car. 6 to rumple or disorder • tumble the bedclothes. 7 (also tumble to something) colloq to understand, realize or become aware of, especially suddenly • tumbled to their intentions. 8 to dry (wet laundry) in a tumble-drier. noun 1 an act of tumbling. 2 a fall. 3 a somersault. 4 a confused or untidy state or heap. tumbling noun, adj. take a tumble to oneself colloq to take a look at one's situation and do something to improve it • It's two years since he left school and he's never had a job - I wish he'd take a tumble to himself.
ETYMOLOGY: Anglo-Saxon tumbian.