Puddle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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puddle
[ˈpʌd.əl ]
Definition
water accumulation
A puddle is a small body of water that collects on the ground, usually caused by rain or melted snow. It is typically shallow and can vary in size and shape. Puddles may be found on roads, sidewalks, and in natural environments.
Synonyms
pond, pool, water accumulation.
Examples of usage
- The children jumped in the puddle and splashed water everywhere.
- After the storm, there were numerous puddles on the street.
- She avoided stepping in the puddle as she walked home.
- A puddle formed in the backyard after the heavy rain.
Translations
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Origin of 'puddle'
The word 'puddle' originates from the Middle English term 'puddel', which is possibly derived from the Old English word 'pyddel', meaning 'frog'. It was used in the late 14th century, primarily to describe a small accumulation of liquid, resembling the habitat of frogs. As the language evolved, 'puddle' became more broadly associated with any small pool of water, typically found in natural or urban settings. The term reflects the changes in English vernacular and its adaptability to describe various forms of water on the ground. The imagery of frogs hopping around small bodies of water contributed to the descriptive nature of the word, solidifying its place in the English lexicon.