Trickle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trickle

[ˈtrɪk(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

water flow

Flow in a small stream. Proceed in a slow, gradual, or unsteady way.

Synonyms

drip, flow, seep, stream.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trickle	Used when describing a slow, small amount of liquid moving, often in a thin stream. Can also describe a slow movement of people or things. A trickle of water ran down the window. The audience started to trickle into the theater.
flow	Describes the movement of liquid in a steady, continuous stream. Can also be used metaphorically to describe something that progresses smoothly and without interruption. The river flows gently through the valley. The conversation flowed easily between them.
drip	Used to describe liquid falling in drops. Often used in the context of plumbing, medicine, or constant leaking. Water began to drip from the ceiling. She put a bucket under the sink to catch the drips.
stream	Describes a continuous flow of liquid, generally faster and more powerful than a trickle. Can also refer to digital transmission of data or media. A stream of water flowed down the hillside. She started a live stream to share the event with her followers.
seep	Refers to liquid slowly passing through small openings or spreading gradually. Often used for water, oil, or other liquids that leak slowly. Water began to seep through the cracks in the wall. Oil was seeping out of the engine.

Examples of usage

The water trickled through the rocks.
Tears trickled down her cheeks.
A few drops of rain trickled down the window.
The news trickled in throughout the day.
The information trickled out slowly.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

small amount

A small flow of liquid. A small quantity or number coming or going in steady stream.

Synonyms

bit, drip, drop, stream.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
trickle	Trickle is often used when describing a small, steady flow of liquid or substances. It's common in contexts involving liquids gradually flowing out or into something. A trickle of water flowed from the broken faucet. The rain began to trickle down the window pane.
stream	Stream is used to describe a continuous flow, often larger and steadier than a trickle. It's frequently used for larger amounts of liquids or continuous digital data flow. A stream of water rushed down the mountainside. She watched a stream of videos online.
drip	Drip refers to a single drop of liquid falling often slowly, and intermittently. It's commonly used to describe leaks or dripping faucets. Water started to drip from the ceiling. The faucet won't stop dripping.
drop	Drop is used when referring to a small, singular unit of liquid. It's usually used in contexts where individual drops are important or noticeable. A drop of blood fell on the carpet. Just add a drop of vanilla extract to the batter.
bit	Bit is commonly used to refer to a small quantity of something, not necessarily liquid. It's informal and widely applicable to various contexts. Can you add a bit of sugar to my tea? I need a bit more time to finish this task.

Examples of usage

A trickle of sweat ran down his face.
A trickle of customers came into the store.
The donations were just a trickle compared to last year.

Translations

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

Origin of 'trickle'

The word 'trickle' originated from Middle English 'triklen', which is related to Low German 'trickeln'. The earliest recorded use of the word dates back to the 14th century. Over time, 'trickle' has evolved to represent a slow, steady flow or movement. It is commonly used in contexts related to water flow, small quantities, or gradual progress.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,442, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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16439 underline
16440 antisocial
16441 secretariat
16442 trickle
16443 lexicon
16444 mocked
16445 buttocks
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