channel
UK: ˈtʃæn.əl | US: ˈtʃæn.əl
n. a narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water
n. a medium or method of communication or distribution (e.g., TV channel)
vt. to direct or guide something along a particular path
The word "channel" traces back to the Latin canalis (meaning "pipe" or "groove"), which evolved into Old French chanel. The diminutive suffix -el was added, reinforcing the idea of a narrow conduit. Originally referring to water passages, its meaning expanded metaphorically to include communication pathways (e.g., broadcasting channels) by the 15th century. The verb form emerged later, reflecting the action of guiding flow.
The English Channel separates England from France.
Switch to channel 5 for the news broadcast.
The river was channeled to prevent flooding.
She channeled her creativity into painting.
The team used social media as a marketing channel.