gutter - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
gutter Word Meanings
- a narrow channel for water to flow
- a low area where water collects
- the space between the edge of the roof and the wall
gutter Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
gutter Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈɡʌtə/
US
/ˈɡʌtər/
gutter Word Etymology
gutter: gut (to hollow out) + ter (from a suffix indicating 'related to'). Origin: Old French 'gouttière' → Middle English 'gutter'. Imagine a narrow channel where rainwater flows down from the roof—forming a 'gutter' along the edge, keeping the building safe from water damage.
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
A gutter is a narrow channel along the edge of a roof that collects rainwater and directs it away from the building. It helps protect walls, foundations, and doors from water damage by guiding runoff to a downspout or drainage system. Gutters can be made of metal, plastic, or copper and are shaped to fit the roofline. Outside the architectural sense, 'gutter' also refers to a low area where water pools after a heavy rain. In everyday speech you might hear 'clean the gutter' or 'the gutter is clogged.' The term is not used for sewers or drains inside the house; that is a different system.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember gutter and downspout are parts of exterior drainage.
- - Don’t confuse gutter with indoor pipes or sewers.
- - Common materials: aluminum, steel, copper.
- - Blockages cause water damage; check regularly after storms.
- - In British English, gutter sometimes means the low edge by the pavement.
Common Misconceptions
- A gutter is only for catching leaves, not water.
- Gutters are always inside the house.
- All gutters are the same material.
- Downspouts are gutters, and vice versa.
- Gutters remove water instantly without maintenance.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, gutters are a concrete, architectural term tied to roofs. Learners often confuse gutter with street gutter or sewer, or mix up gutter with downspout. Emphasize roof edge, rainwater direction, and materials.
Learning Tips
- 1) Visualize gutter as a roof edge channel collecting rainwater.
- 2) Learn common collocations: gutter, downspout, roofline.
- 3) Associate materials with durability (aluminum, copper).
- 4) Distinguish gutter from indoor plumbing terms.
- 5) Practice situational phrases like 'the gutter is clogged' in context.
- 6) Watch real-life maintenance videos to see common issues.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'gutter' mean?
A.A long narrow trench usually at the edge of a roof to catch and carry away rainwater.
B.A type of bird that sings sweet melodies.
C.A popular type of dance move.
D.A large body of water like an ocean.
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'gutter' correctly?
A.He painted the walls of his house with vibrant gutter colors.
B.She found a pair of shoes in the gutter of the forest.
C.The gutter of apples in the orchard was a sight to behold.
D.The gutter of the swimming pool was sparkling clean.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'gutter'?
A.Roof
B.River
C.Cup
D.Sidewalk
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'gutter'?
A.Clean
B.Bridge
C.Surface
D.Urban
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving a 'gutter'?
A.She was walking on the paved path next to the road.
B.The pipes in the building were leaking water.
C.The streetlights were flickering in the dark alley.
D.The garden was blooming with colorful flowers.
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