Canal

Definition

Canal refers to a man-made waterway constructed to allow the passage of boats or ships inland or to convey water for irrigation. It can also refer to a tubular passage or channel within the body, such as the ear canal.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈnæl/
• Respelling: kuh-NAL

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /kəˈnæl/
• Respelling: kuh-NAL

The pronunciation of "canal" is the same in both American and British English, with emphasis on the second syllable.

Etymology

The word "canal" originates from the Old French word "canal," which comes from the Latin word "canalis," meaning "a pipe, groove, or water channel." The term was first used in the English language in the late 15th century to describe a watercourse, particularly one designed for transportation or irrigation.

Derivatives

• Canalize (verb)
• Canalization (noun)
• Canaller (noun, historical)
• Canalized (adjective)
• Uncanalized (adjective)

Synonyms

• Waterway
• Channel
• Passage

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "canal" is commonly used to describe an artificial waterway created for navigation or irrigation purposes. For example, "The Panama Canal is a crucial waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans," or "The city’s canals are used to irrigate the surrounding farmlands." Additionally, in medical contexts, it refers to tubular structures in the body, such as the "auditory canal."

Related Terms

• Lock: A device used for raising and lowering boats between stretches of water of different levels on river and canal waterways.
• Aqueduct: A bridge-like structure that carries a canal over a valley, road, or another watercourse.
• Reservoir: A large natural or artificial lake used as a source of water supply.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A man-made waterway: Refers to an artificial channel designed for the passage of boats or for irrigation purposes.
  • Example: "The Erie Canal played a significant role in the economic development of New York."
• A tubular passage within the body: Describes a narrow channel within the body, often used to convey fluids or sound waves.
  • Example: "The ear canal carries sound from the outer ear to the eardrum."