Trickle: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 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.