Ditch Meaning and Definition
Ditch
Pronunciation
/dɪtʃ/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A ditch is a long, narrow depression or trench, usually filled with water, often used for irrigation, drainage, or defense.
Examples
- The farm had a large ditch to channel water from the fields.
- The city built a ditch along the highway to prevent flooding.
Synonyms
- Trench
- Furrow
Antonyms
- Hill
- Rise
Etymology
The word “ditch” comes from the Old English word “dycc,” meaning a ditch or trench. The word has been in use since the 9th century.
Usage Notes
A ditch can be used as a metaphor for a challenging situation: “We’re in a tough spot, it’s like being stuck in a ditch.”
Cultural References
In the TV show “The Walking Dead,” a group of survivors uses a ditch to evade walkers.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“In a ditch” is an idiomatic expression meaning to be in a difficult or precarious situation.
Related Words or Phrases
Moat, trench, furrow, canal, ravine
Collocations
Ditch and bridge, ditch network, ditch excavation
Frequency of Use
The word “ditch” is moderately common in modern language, with a frequency of use similar to that of “trench” or “furrow.”
Common Misspellings
Ditche, Dich, Dych