Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/kəˈnæl/

Definitions

• A man-made waterway constructed to allow the passage of boats or ships or to convey water for irrigation.
• A tubular structure in the body, such as the ear canal or the spinal canal.
• A narrow passage or conduit, typically for transporting liquids or other materials.

Usage Examples

• "The Panama Canal is one of the most important waterways in the world." (Noun)
• "The doctor examined his ear canal to check for any blockages." (Noun)
• "The ancient civilizations built canals for irrigation purposes." (Noun)

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word "canalis," meaning "a pipe or conduit," which is related to the word "canna," meaning "reed" or "tube." The term has been used since the early 17th century to describe water channels and similar passages.

Synonyms

• Waterway
• Conduit
• Channel
• Aqueduct

Antonyms

• Blockage
• Obstruction

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In some regions of the United States, "canal" is pronounced with an emphasis on the second syllable (ca-NAL), while in other areas it may be pronounced with more equal emphasis on both syllables (CA-nal).
• In France, the word "canal" is typically pronounced with a soft "a," resembling "ka-nahl," while in Spanish-speaking countries, it may be pronounced more distinctly with a hard "a" sound.

Historical Usage

The concept of a canal dates back to ancient civilizations, where they were used primarily for irrigation and water management. The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all constructed early versions of canals. The Suez Canal, completed in 1869, is one of the most famous examples, having revolutionized global trade by providing a direct shipping route between Europe and Asia. Canals played a significant role in the industrial revolution, facilitating the transportation of goods and contributing to the development of cities.

Cultural Nuances

Canals have played a critical role in shaping the culture of many regions, particularly in areas like Venice, Italy, and Amsterdam, the Netherlands, where the waterways serve as both functional and cultural symbols. In these cities, canals are an iconic part of the landscape, with many buildings and homes built directly on or alongside them. In the broader cultural context, canals represent progress, trade, and the power of human engineering, often seen as both practical infrastructure and works of art in their own right.

More Information

Canals are integral to human history, symbolizing not only the mastery over natural elements but also the drive for expansion and connection. Today, canals remain vital in agriculture, urban development, and transportation. Modern engineering marvels like the Panama Canal and the Grand Canal of China highlight their continued importance in global commerce and trade. The construction of canals has also inspired numerous works of art, literature, and film, cementing their place in both the historical and cultural imagination.