brook - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
brook Word Meanings
- a small stream
- a natural watercourse
- to tolerate or allow (as in 'I cannot brook his disrespect')
brook Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
brook Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/brʊk/
US
/brʊk/
brook Word Etymology
The word 'brook' comes from the Old English ' broc', which means 'a small stream'. The root evolved from Germanic origins. Imagine a quaint, bubbling brook surrounded by trees, a serene setting where you can relax and hear the gentle flow of water.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Brook in English covers both natural features and a specific verb. As a noun, it refers to a small stream or any natural watercourse with shallow, gentle flow, often found in rural landscapes and evoking calm scenes such as a babbling brook. The sense can extend to larger watercourses in some contexts, though it remains distinctly different from a river or creek. As a verb, brook means to tolerate or endure something, as in 'I cannot brook his disrespect', a formal, somewhat old-fashioned usage. The word originates from Old English broc, from Germanic roots, emphasizing water’s presence in the land and a bucolic atmosphere.
Usage Reminders
- - Brook can be a noun or a verb.
- - As a noun, it means a small stream or natural watercourse.
- - As a verb, brook means to tolerate or endure something.
- - 'cannot brook' is a formal, old-fashioned phrase.
- - Do not confuse brook with creek; usage varies by region and context.
Common Misconceptions
- Brook is not just a verb; it is also a noun.
- Brook does not mean 'a large river'—it usually implies a small stream.
- Brook is more formal/poetic than 'creek' in many contexts.
- Do not use brook to describe people’s behavior; use tolerate for behavior, not people.
- Brook and creek are regionally variable; check context before choosing.
Thinking Differences
In English, the senses of brook span a small natural watercourse and a formal verb meaning to tolerate. Learners often treat brook only as a verb or confuse it with creek; both mistakes stem from regional usage differences and a preference for shorter everyday terms. Emphasize that brook as a noun conveys bucolic imagery, while as a verb it carries a weighty, old-fashioned tone.
Learning Tips
- Visualize a small stream when you hear brook in writing.
- Remember the verb is formal; use in serious contexts.
- Keep creek as a different option for larger watercourses.
- Use examples with 'a babbling brook' to convey bucolic tone.
- Practice distinguishing noun vs verb by rewriting sentences.
- Gloss 'cannot brook' to avoid misplacing the verb into casual speech.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'brook'?
A.a type of rock formation
B.to tolerate or allow
C.a cheerful song
D.a large group of people
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correctly used sentence of the word 'brook':
A.He decided to brook the rain by staying outside.
B.The soldiers marched through the brook confidently.
C.She brooked no interference in her work.
D.They brook music loudly in their house.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'brook'?
A.run
B.suppress
C.shout
D.sing
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'brook'?
A.confront
B.disregard
C.ignore
D.accept
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context that involves a situation where someone cannot tolerate something?
A.In a classroom, teachers often encourage students to express their opinions.
B.Walking along the quiet trail on a sunny day can be refreshing.
C.A person might refuse to accept rudeness during a meeting.
D.People typically enjoy relaxing by a quiet stream.
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