Pour Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
pour
[pษหr ]
Definitions
cooking
To cause (a liquid) to flow from a container in a steady stream by holding the container at an angle.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pour |
Used when a liquid is transferred from one container to another, often in a controlled manner.
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| spill |
Describes liquid escaping from a container unintentionally and spreading, often implying a mess or accident. This has a negative connotation.
|
| flow |
Describes the movement of liquid in a continuous, steady manner, often naturally or smoothly.
|
| stream |
Describes continuous movement resembling a small, narrow river, often emphasizing speed or a steady flow.
|
Examples of usage
- I poured the milk into the bowl.
- She poured the wine into the glass.
rain
To rain heavily.
Synonyms
pour down, rain heavily, teem.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pour |
Used in everyday conversation to describe moderate to heavy, continuous rainfall.
|
| rain heavily |
A more neutral, descriptive term often used in reports, weather forecasts, and formal contexts to describe very heavy rain.
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| pour down |
Used similarly to 'pour' but often implies more intense rainfall. Commonly used in conversations and informal writing.
|
| teem |
Less commonly used, more literary or formal phrase meaning very heavy rainfall. Can also suggest an overwhelming amount or abundance.
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Examples of usage
- It poured all day yesterday.
- The rain poured down in buckets.
liquid
A steady flow of a liquid.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pour |
Used primarily when describing liquid being transferred from one container to another, often in a controlled or deliberate manner.
|
| flow |
Describes a steady and continuous movement of a liquid, gas, or even abstract concepts like ideas. It implies smooth and uninterrupted motion.
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| stream |
Refers to liquids or data moving continuously in one direction, often in a natural or digital environment. It can also apply to people or things moving in a steady flow.
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| rush |
Implies a sudden and often urgent movement of liquid, people, or other entities. It carries a sense of urgency or speed.
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Examples of usage
- She watched the pour of the waterfall.
- The pour of the oil was slow and thick.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Pouring is based on gravity, which pulls liquids down, helping them flow out of containers.
- The viscosity of a liquid affects how easily it pours; for instance, honey pours slower than water.
- Scientists have studied the physics of pouring to understand the flow and splashing behavior, which can aid in designing better containers.
Literature
- Many poets use the act of pouring to symbolize emotions flowing out, like tears or love.
- In literature, pouring can represent transformation โ for instance, pouring a potion in a story might change a character.
- Authors often describe pouring visually; it can create vivid imagery of abundance or loss.
Cultural Practices
- In many cultures, pouring tea or coffee is a social ritual, symbolizing hospitality and friendship.
- Some traditional ceremonies involve pouring liquids as part of blessings or offerings, such as libations in ancient rituals.
- The act of pouring is often depicted in art and photography as a metaphor for creativity or uncontrolled emotions.
Daily Life
- Pouring is a common kitchen task, essential in cooking and baking, whether for liquids or dry ingredients.
- Pouring effectively can prevent messes; there are special spouts or pouring jugs designed for this.
- The term 'pouring rain' vividly describes heavy rainfall, showing how language uses the word in environmental contexts.
Origin of 'pour'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pour' comes from the Latin word 'pลrฤญre,' meaning to cause to flow.
- It entered the English language in the late Middle Ages, originally used mainly in relation to pouring out drinks.
- The connection to 'pouring' is evident in several languages, with similar roots in French ('verser') and Italian ('versare').
The word 'pour' originated from the Old French word 'purer', which means 'to pour, pour out'. The term has been in use in English since the Middle English period, evolving from 'pouren' to 'pouren' and finally 'pour'. The concept of pouring liquids has been essential in human history, from pouring water for drinking to pouring liquids in cooking and manufacturing processes.
See also: downpour, outpouring, pouring.