heap

UK: hiːp | US: hiːp

Definition

  1. n. a disorderly pile or mass of objects

  2. vt. to accumulate or collect in large quantities

  3. vi. to form or rise in a heap

Structure
heap <pile>
Etymology

The word "heap" traces back to Old English hēap, meaning a pile or crowd, and is related to Old High German houf and Old Norse hópr. It retains its core meaning of an untidy accumulation, reflecting its Germanic roots. The simplicity of its structure (no prefixes/suffixes) underscores its ancient origin as a concrete noun for physical stacking.

Examples

  1. She tossed the clothes into a heap on the floor.

  2. The farmer heaped the grain into tall mounds.

  3. Snow began to heap against the door overnight.

  4. His desk was a heap of papers and books.

  5. Volunteers heaped donations for the food drive.