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Pipes Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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pipes

[paɪps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

smoking

A tube of metal, plastic, or other material used to convey liquid, gas, oil, or other substances.

Synonyms

conduits, ducts, tubes.

Examples of usage

  • The plumber fixed the leak in the pipes.
  • The pipes in the house needed replacement.
Context #2 | Noun

music

A wind instrument consisting of a single tube with holes along it that are covered and uncovered with the fingers to produce different notes.

Synonyms

bagpipes, flute, whistle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pipes

This word refers to any wind instrument but is often used colloquially to talk about musical instruments in general or specifically the pipes of an organ.

  • The church organ's pipes are very old.
  • He took out his pipes and started playing a tune.
bagpipes

This word is used when talking specifically about the traditional Scottish instrument with multiple pipes and a bag that is squeezed to produce sound.

  • The sound of the bagpipes filled the air during the parade.
  • He learned to play the bagpipes from his grandfather.
flute

This is appropriate when talking about the woodwind instrument that is usually made of metal or wood and played by blowing air across an opening.

  • She played a beautiful melody on her flute.
  • The orchestra's flute section was exceptional tonight.
whistle

This word is used for a simple wind instrument that makes a sound when blown into, but it can also refer to the act of producing a high-pitched sound using the mouth or a specific device.

  • He carried a small whistle to signal changes during practice.
  • The referee blew the whistle to start the game.

Examples of usage

  • He played a traditional Irish tune on the pipes.
  • The sound of the pipes echoed through the valley.
Context #3 | Verb

informal

To play on a musical instrument, especially a wind instrument.

Synonyms

entertain, perform, play.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
pipes

Can also refer to a system of tubes that carry liquids or gases within buildings, infrastructure, etc.

  • The plumber fixed the leaking pipes.
  • Water flows through these pipes to reach your home.
play

Refers to engaging in a game, activity, or pastime for enjoyment, or performing music.

  • Children love to play in the park.
  • She will play the piano at the concert.
perform

Usually means to carry out a task or action, often in front of an audience, like singing, acting, or dancing.

  • The actors will perform the play this evening.
  • She performs on stage every weekend.
entertain

Used when talking about providing amusement or enjoyment to others, especially in a social or public setting.

  • They hired a magician to entertain the children at the party.
  • The concert was meant to entertain the entire audience.

Examples of usage

  • He pipes a cheerful tune every morning.
  • The band piped a lively melody at the parade.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • Pipes were used as far back as 4000 BC in ancient civilizations, showcasing their importance for carrying water.
  • The ancient Romans used lead pipes to supply water, revolutionizing public health and sanitation of their cities.
  • Modern plumbing systems evolved significantly during the Industrial Revolution, improving the way cities manage water.

Science

  • Pipes can be classified by their material, such as metal, plastic, or clay, each having different uses based on durability and flexibility.
  • Flow dynamics inside pipes can be described by principles in physics, including pressure, flow rate, and resistance.
  • In medicine, pipes, or tubes are often used in procedures to deliver gases or fluids to patients.

Pop Culture

  • In the popular game 'Super Mario', pipes are magical tubes that transport characters to different worlds, becoming a game icon.
  • Pipes have appeared in various songs and movies, symbolizing connection and the flow of life, often depicted with water themes.
  • The phrase 'pipe dream' originates from opium, where dreams felt vivid and real, showing how pipes have influenced language.

Architecture

  • Pipes are essential in construction for plumbing and heating systems, ensuring comfort and functionality in buildings.
  • Architects must consider pipe placement in designs to maintain aesthetics while ensuring easy access for repairs.
  • Certain types of pipes, like smoke flues, play a crucial role in ensuring safety by directing fumes away from living areas.

Literature

  • In literature, pipes often symbolize communication and the flow of ideas, seen as channels through which thoughts travel.
  • Several poems and stories feature pipes as metaphors, illustrating life’s journey and the connections between people.
  • Classic novels frequently describe characters using pipes to convey status, wisdom, or an air of mystery.

Origin of 'pipes'

The word 'pipes' originated from the Middle English word 'pipa', which in turn came from the Old English 'pipor'. It has been used for centuries to refer to various types of tubes or musical instruments. The use of 'pipes' in the context of conveying substances through tubes dates back to ancient times, while the musical instrument usage has been prominent in various cultures throughout history.

See also: pipe, pipefitting, pipeline, piper, pipet, pipework, piping.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,456, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.