Pond

Definition

Pond typically denotes a small body of still water, smaller than a lake.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɑnd/
• Respelling: PAHND (with "PAHND" as in "palm")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɒnd/
• Respelling: POND (with "POND" as in the common British pronunciation of "cot")

In both dialects, "pond" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable. The American version features a more open "ɑ" sound, while the British version uses a rounded "ɒ" sound, reflecting typical regional vowel distinctions.

Etymology

The term "pond" comes from the Old English word "pund", which indicated a pool or body of water. The word gradually evolved to signify smaller bodies of water in comparison to lakes.

Derivatives

• Pondweed
• Pond-dweller
• Pondside
• Pondlife
• Pond-like

Synonyms

• Pool
• Lagoon
• Waterhole

Antonyms

• Ocean
• Sea
• River

Usage

"Pond" is used to describe a small body of water, generally still or stagnant, that is smaller than a lake. Ponds can be natural or man-made and are often found in gardens, parks, or natural habitats. They are essential ecosystems, supporting various life forms from aquatic plants to fish, insects, and birds.

Related Terms

• Wetland
• Marsh
• Bog
• Tarn
• Reservoir

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A small body of still water, usually fresh and naturally formed, and smaller than a lake.
• Example: "The pond in the garden is home to many frogs and fish."

• A specific environment or realm, especially in the context of being limited or provincial.
• Example: "In the bigger pond of international business, he felt out of his depth."