shower

UK: ˈʃaʊə | US: ˈʃaʊər

Definition

  1. n. a brief fall of rain or other precipitation

  2. n. a device or enclosure for washing under a spray of water

  3. vt. to pour or scatter abundantly (e.g., gifts or praise)

  4. vi. to rain lightly or intermittently

Structure
show <rain, Old English scūr>er <noun suffix indicating agent or instrument>
Etymology

The word "shower" originates from Old English scūr, meaning "a short fall of rain," which is derived from Proto-Germanic skūrō. The suffix -er was later added in Middle English to form the modern spelling. The verb sense ("to pour abundantly") emerged in the 16th century, metaphorically extending the idea of rain-like abundance. The bathing sense ("device for washing") arose in the 19th century, likening water spray to natural rainfall.

Examples

  1. A sudden shower cooled the afternoon heat.

  2. She installed a new shower in her bathroom.

  3. They showered the newlyweds with confetti.

  4. It’s showering lightly, so take an umbrella.

  5. The boss showered praise on the team for their success.