Trench: meaning, definitions and examples

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trench

[ trentʃ ]

^{Context #1}

in military context

A long, narrow ditch dug in the ground, especially as a means of defense.

Synonyms

ditch, furrow, moat

Examples of usage

The soldiers took cover in the trench during the enemy attack.
The trench provided protection from enemy fire.

^{Context #2}

in fashion context

A long, loose-fitting coat or jacket, typically worn in cold weather.

Synonyms

coat, jacket, parka

Examples of usage

She wore a stylish trench over her dress.
The trench kept him warm in the winter weather.

^{Context #3}

in construction context

To dig or make a trench in (the ground).

Synonyms

burrow, dig, excavate

Examples of usage

The workers had to trench the area before laying the pipes.
They trenched the field for irrigation purposes.

Translations

Translations of the word "trench" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trincheira

🇮🇳 खाई

🇩🇪 Graben

🇮🇩 parit

🇺🇦 траншея

🇵🇱 rów

🇯🇵 塹壕（ざんごう）

🇫🇷 tranchée

🇪🇸 trinchera

🇹🇷 siper

🇰🇷 참호

🇸🇦 خندق

🇨🇿 příkop

🇸🇰 priekopa

🇨🇳 战壕

🇸🇮 jarek

🇮🇸 skurður

🇰🇿 ор

🇬🇪 ხევი

🇦🇿 xəndək

🇲🇽 trinchera

Word origin

The word 'trench' originated from Middle English 'trenche', which came from Old French 'trenchier', meaning 'to cut'. The military usage of 'trench' dates back to the 16th century, referring to a ditch dug for defensive purposes. The fashion sense of 'trench coat' emerged in the early 20th century, popularized by Burberry in World War I. The verb 'trench' has its roots in the action of cutting or digging, reflecting the physical act of creating a trench in the ground.