canal
UK: kəˈnæl | US: kəˈnæl
n. an artificial waterway constructed for navigation, irrigation, or drainage
n. (anatomy) a tubular passage or channel in the body
n. (astronomy) a faint linear marking on the surface of a planet or moon
canal = can<pipe/channel> + al<noun suffix>
- can (from Latin canna "pipe, tube, reed")
- al (Latin-derived noun suffix indicating "pertaining to" or "action of")
Etymology Origin:
The word canal traces back to Latin canna, meaning "reed" or "pipe," reflecting its early use in describing hollow, tube-like structures. Over time, it evolved to specifically denote artificial waterways, mirroring technological advancements in engineering. The suffix -al solidifies its noun form, emphasizing its functional or structural nature.
The Panama Canal connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The ear canal can become blocked by excess wax.
Ancient civilizations built canals to irrigate crops.
Astronomers observed mysterious canals on Mars in the 19th century.
The city’s canal system is a popular tourist attraction.