ewer
UK: ˈjuːə | US: ˈjuːər
Definition
n. a large water jug with a wide mouth, often used for carrying or pouring water
Structure
ew <water>er <noun suffix>ew <water>er <noun suffix>
Etymology
ewer = ew<water> + er<noun suffix>
- ew<water>: Derived from Old French aiguiere (water vessel), from Latin aquarius (related to water), ultimately from aqua (water).
- er<noun suffix>: A common English suffix denoting an object or tool.
Etymology Origin:
The word ewer traces back to Latin aqua (water) through Old French, where aiguiere referred to a water pitcher. Over time, the spelling evolved to ewer in Middle English, retaining its core association with water vessels. The suffix -er solidifies its function as a container.
Examples
The servant filled the ewer with fresh water for the guests.
A beautifully decorated ewer stood on the antique table.
Medieval banquets often featured ornate ewers for handwashing.
The museum displayed a 16th-century silver ewer.
She poured wine from the ewer into delicate glasses.