Ditch Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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ditch
[dɪtʃ ]
Definitions
in agriculture
A long narrow trench or furrow dug in the ground, typically used for drainage or irrigation.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ditch |
Often used to describe a narrow passage dug into the ground, usually next to a road or field, for drainage or irrigation.
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| trench |
Refers to a deep, narrow excavation, often associated with military defense or major construction projects.
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| channel |
Used to describe a wider passage for water, often natural, but it can also refer to man-made structures to control water flow or route information.
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Examples of usage
- Farmers dug ditches to drain excess water from their fields.
- The irrigation system was connected to a network of ditches.
informal
A hole or depression, especially in a road.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ditch |
To abandon or leave someone or something, often suddenly and without explanation. It can carry a negative connotation.
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| hole |
A hollow space or opening in something, usually created by digging or by natural forces. It can be small or large.
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| pit |
A large, deep hole, typically used for mining or storing something. It often implies a considerable depth.
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Examples of usage
- Watch out for that ditch in the road.
- The car swerved to avoid hitting a deep ditch.
informal
To get rid of or give up something or someone.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| ditch |
This word is often used when you leave something or someone suddenly or in an informal way. It can have a slightly negative connotation.
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| abandon |
Used in more serious situations when you leave something or someone permanently, often without intending to return. It carries a strong negative connotation.
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| discard |
Used when you throw something away because it is no longer needed or wanted. This word is often used for objects rather than people.
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Examples of usage
- He ditched his old car and bought a new one.
- She ditched her toxic friend and felt much better.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Ditches are often dug in fields to help with irrigation, directing water where it's needed.
- They help drain excess water to prevent flooding, which can be crucial for crop growth.
- In some areas, ditches are also part of traditional farming techniques to maintain soil health.
Engineering
- Modern drainage systems often incorporate ditches to manage stormwater runoff.
- Engineers design ditches with specific slopes and materials to ensure they function effectively.
- In civil engineering, ditches can also be part of larger drainage networks to prevent water accumulation.
Transport
- Historical ditches were used to mark boundaries and improve the safety of travel routes.
- They can also serve as natural barriers against vehicles straying off paths.
- In ancient times, ditch construction was vital for army logistics, providing defense lines.
Pop Culture
- In films, 'ditching' someone can mean leaving them behind, often for comic or dramatic effect.
- Ditches frequently appear in adventure stories, where characters might hide or escape.
- Songs and books sometimes use 'ditch' as a metaphor for separation or abandonment.
Origin of 'ditch'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English word 'dic', meaning 'embankment' or 'ditch'.
- It has roots in the Proto-Germanic language, highlighting its long history in European languages.
- The word has been used in English since at least the 14th century.
The word 'ditch' has Old English origins, coming from the word 'dic', which meant a trench or ditch. Originally used to refer to a trench dug as a fortification or boundary, over time the word expanded to include drainage ditches and later informal usage to describe a hole or depression. The verb form of 'ditch' emerged in the 19th century, with the informal meaning of getting rid of something or someone. Today, 'ditch' is commonly used in both literal and figurative contexts.