rivulet

UK: ˈrɪvjʊlɪt | US: ˈrɪvjəlɪt

Definition

  1. n. a small stream or brook

Structure
riv <river>ulet <diminutive suffix>riv <river>ulet <diminutive suffix>
Etymology

Derived from Latin rivus (stream), rivulet entered English via Old French rivulet, a diminutive form meaning "little stream." The suffix -ulet softens the root to convey a tiny, gentle watercourse, often evoking imagery of babbling brooks in nature.

Examples

  1. A clear rivulet trickled through the mossy rocks.

  2. Children played by the rivulet, skipping stones across its surface.

  3. The hikers refilled their bottles from the icy rivulet.

  4. The map marked a hidden rivulet winding through the forest.

  5. After the rain, a temporary rivulet formed along the garden path.