He was trying to 'drown his fears'. [=to get drunk so that he wouldn't be afraid]
I'm being 'drowned in' paperwork. [=I'm being overwhelmed by paperwork]
Noise from the passing airplane 'drowned out' our conversation.
(..) They don't listen to us at dinner, either. Come on, let's play. Keep us warm. ''Orpheus''. (playing fast music from ''Orpheus ln The Underworld'') Music to drown by. Now l know l'm in first class ! - Where is everyone ? - They're all still aft, sir. We have an understanding, then, Mr Murdoch ? (..)1997 Titanic