runnel

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a small stream or rivulet

   A clear runnel flowed from the spring into the meadow.

2. 2
   noun

   a narrow natural or artificial channel through which water or another liquid flows

   Rainwater followed a shallow runnel beside the path.

3. 3
   verb

   rare: to make narrow channels that direct the flow of water or another liquid

   Workers runnel the marsh so standing water can drain away.

From Middle English runel or rennel and Old English rynel, 'that which runs; stream,' a diminutive formation related to run. The word extended from a small flowing stream to any narrow groove or channel carrying liquid.

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