bottoming
|bot-tom-ing|
🇺🇸
/ˈbɑtəmɪŋ/
🇬🇧
/ˈbɒtəmɪŋ/
(bottom)
lowest point
Etymology
'bottom' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'botm', where 'botm' meant 'lowest part' or 'foundation'.
'bottom' changed from Old English 'botm' (and Middle English forms like 'botme'/'botm') and eventually became the modern English word 'bottom'.
Initially, it meant 'the lowest part of something' (a physical bottom); over time it developed figurative senses such as 'the lowest point' and further specialized uses (e.g., sexual role 'bottom').
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
the act or practice of assuming the bottom (receptive) sexual role; being the receptive partner (slang, often used in LGBTQ+ and BDSM contexts).
He discussed his experience with bottoming openly.
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Noun 2
the process of creating a base layer or foundation (e.g., in manufacturing, construction, or boat work).
Bottoming of the hull was completed before painting.
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Verb 1
(intransitive) to reach the lowest point, to stop falling and begin to stabilize or recover (often used of markets, emotions, or performance).
The economy is bottoming after several difficult quarters.
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Last updated: 2025/12/03 17:56