ripples
|rip-ples|
🇺🇸
/ˈrɪpəl/
🇬🇧
/ˈrɪp.əl/
(ripple)
small waves
Etymology
'ripple' originates from Middle English, likely of imitative or expressive origin referring to a small wave.
'ripple' appeared in Middle English (forms such as 'ripel' or 'ripple') and developed into the modern English word 'ripple'.
Initially, it meant 'a small wave' or 'to make small waves', and over time it retained that sense while also gaining figurative uses meaning 'to spread gradually'.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small wave or series of small waves on the surface of water or another liquid.
The stone caused ripples across the pond.
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Noun 2
a small, spreading effect or reaction (often used figuratively, e.g., a ripple of laughter or concern).
There were ripples of laughter after his joke.
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Verb 1
to form small waves on the surface (of water or another liquid).
A breeze ripples the surface of the lake and the sun glints off the ripples.
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Last updated: 2026/01/22 02:13