rut
UK: rʌt | US: rʌt
n. 1. A deep track made by the repeated passage of wheels, especially in soft ground.
n. 2. A fixed or monotonous pattern of behavior or thought.
vi. 1. To make or become entrenched in a routine or habit.
The word "rut" traces back to Old French "rute," meaning "track" or "path," which itself likely derives from Latin "rupta," a form of "rumpere" (to break). The original sense referred to a broken or worn path, later extending metaphorically to describe repetitive behavior. The dual meaning—physical tracks and mental habits—reflects the word's logical progression from literal grooves to figurative routines.
The heavy wagons left deep ruts in the muddy road.
After years of the same job, he felt stuck in a rut.
Deer often follow the same rut during mating season.
She decided to travel to break out of her daily rut.
The tractor wheels carved fresh ruts into the field.