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Funneled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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funneled

[ˈfʌn.əld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

directing attention

To funnel means to direct or channel something through a narrow passage or into a specified entity. This term often describes the action of guiding information, resources, or efforts towards a particular goal or focus.

Synonyms

channel, direct, focus, guide.

Examples of usage

  • She funneled her energy into the project.
  • The resources were funneled to assist those in need.
  • He funneled information through several channels.
  • They funneled donations to the charity.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In fluid dynamics, a funneling effect can create a more efficient flow of liquids, reducing spills and waste.
  • Funneled shapes are used in aerodynamics to direct airflow over aircraft wings, improving lift and performance.
  • Natural phenomena, like tornadoes, demonstrate a funnel structure in their shape and behavior, concentrating wind energy.

Technology

  • In data processing, the 'funnel' metaphor is used to describe the process of narrowing down vast amounts of information to find key insights.
  • Sales funnels in marketing help guide potential customers through stages, from awareness to purchasing a product.
  • The concept of a funneled approach is pervasive in software architecture, where information is channeled through specific pathways for efficiency.

Literature

  • Authors often use 'funneling' in narrative techniques, where broader themes are gradually focused down to a specific climax or resolution.
  • Poets may funnel emotions in their work, honing in on intricate feelings through carefully chosen imagery and language.
  • In children's stories, plots often funnel from multiple adventures to a singular lesson, making complex ideas understandable.

Psychology

  • Cognitive psychology studies how individuals funnel their attention, often becoming more focused on relevant information while ignoring distractions.
  • In decision-making, people often use funneling strategies to simplify complex choices by breaking them down into manageable parts.
  • Funneling can appear in therapy techniques, guiding clients to focus on specific emotions or thoughts to facilitate healing and understanding.

Origin of 'funneled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'funnel' comes from the Old French word 'fonnelle', which means 'a small cup or funnel'.
  • It’s related to the Latin word 'fundere', meaning 'to pour', highlighting its function in directing liquids.
  • The term 'funneled' emerged in the English language around the mid-19th century, reflecting industrial processes.

The term 'funnel' originates from the Middle English word 'fonel,' which is derived from the Old French word 'funnelle,' a diminutive form of 'fune,' meaning 'pipe' or 'tube.' The roots can be traced even further back to the Latin word 'funnus,' which means 'a wick' or 'a rope.' The concept of a funnel relates to the physical shape that guides substances into a narrower passage, which has metaphorically evolved to describe the direction of processes or information. Over time, 'funnel' has been adapted in various contexts, notably in business and marketing, illustrating the idea of channeling customers or leads toward a desired outcome.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,774 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.