DictionaryraceGuiding channel
noun

race

A channel that directs movement, especially flowing water.

Water rushes through the narrow race beside the old mill.

Etymology

Old Norse rás means a rush or running course. The channel sense names a defined course along which water or other movement runs.

More examples

  • Workers cleared leaves from the mill race.
  • The race directed water toward the wheel.
  • The guide explained how the race powered the machinery.

Forms

race · races

Similar words

channel
The broad term for a passage directing water.
watercourse
Usually a stream or channel, not specifically one directing a mill.