Langimage
English

funnel

|fun/nel|

B2

/ˈfʌnəl/

guide through a narrow space

Etymology
Etymology Information

'funnel' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'funel,' where 'fun-' meant 'to pour' and '-el' was a diminutive suffix.

Historical Evolution

'funel' transformed into the Middle English word 'fonel,' and eventually became the modern English word 'funnel'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a small tube for pouring,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a device for guiding liquid or powder into a small opening'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a tube or pipe that is wide at the top and narrow at the bottom, used for guiding liquid or powder into a small opening.

She used a funnel to pour the oil into the bottle.

Synonyms

Verb 1

to guide or channel something through a narrow space.

The wind funneled through the narrow alley.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45