1 runnel | Definition of runnel
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runnel

noun
run·​nel | \ ˈrÉ™-nᵊl How to pronounce runnel (audio) \

Definition of runnel

: rivulet, streamlet
Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about runnel

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Synonyms for runnel

Synonyms

beck [British], bourn (or bourne), brook, brooklet, burn [British], creek, gill [British], rill, rivulet, run [chiefly Midland], runlet, streamlet

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Examples of runnel in a Sentence

the fugitive made use of local runnels to throw the bloodhounds off his scent

Recent Examples on the Web

 In summer, runoff from cloudbursts etches into the softer limestones and sluices through the deep runnels. — National Geographic, "Everything to know about Bryce Canyon National Park," 19 Aug. 2019 Grouting crews fan out across the subways every night, looking for runnels down walls and stalactites of muck oozing from ceilings, patching up incursions that are closest to electrical components first. — Sarah Maslin Nir, New York Times, "Water, Water Everywhere in New York Subway. And With it, Problems," 12 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'runnel.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of runnel

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for runnel

alteration of Middle English rinel, from Old English rynel; akin to Old English rinnan to run — more at run

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More Definitions for runnel

runnel

noun
How to pronounce runnel (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of runnel

formal + literary : a small stream

See the full definition for runnel in the English Language Learners Dictionary

More from Merriam-Webster on runnel

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with runnel

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for runnel

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