noun
runnel
RUN-ul/ˈrʌnl/
A small, narrow stream or channel of flowing liquid.
A narrow runnel flows between the moss and pebbles.
Etymology
Ryne meant a stream or watercourse, and the diminutive ending makes a runnel literally a little stream. Its small scale is built into the word’s formation.
More examples
- Runnels of sweat trickle down his back.
- The children float leaves in a runnel beside the trail.
- Melting snow feeds a shallow runnel across the field.
Forms
runnel · runnels