Definition

The activity of swimming on or near the surface of water while using a snorkel, which is a tube that allows a person to breathe while their face is submerged.

Example

We went snorkeling in the coral reef and saw many colorful fish.

Conversation

Have you ever tried snorkeling before?

Yeah, I went last summer and it was amazing!

That sounds so fun! I really want to go snorkeling on our next trip.

You definitely should — the underwater sights are breathtaking!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To swim underwater using a snorkel, which is a tube that allows you to breathe while your face is in the water.

Example

We spent the afternoon snorkeling in the clear blue waters of the reef.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever tried snorkeling in the ocean?

No, but it sounds like a lot of fun!

You should definitely give it a go; it's amazing to see the fish up close while snorkeling.

Root Explanation

Snorkeling is formed from "snorkel" (a word of uncertain origin, possibly derived from the dialectal English word 'snorkel', meaning to breathe through a tube) and the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action or process of). The word refers to the action of swimming while using a snorkel to breathe underwater.

Memory Tip

Think of using a 'snorkel' to breathe while swimming — the '-ing' shows that it's the action of doing that.

Visually Confused Words