gully

Definition

A trench, ravine or narrow channel which was worn by water flow, especially on a hillside.

Etymology

Origin uncertain. Possibly from a variant of Middle English golet (“esophagus, gullet”), from Old French goulet, from Latin gula (“throat”). Shift in meaning in Middle English to "water channel, ravine" may have been influenced by Middle English gylle, gille, galle (“deep narrow valley, ravine”); see gill. Compare Dutch geul. Alternatively, from a diminutive of dialectal gull (“fissue, chasm”) + -y (diminutive suffix). See gull, gullick.

Example Sentences

• "A new drainage run and rainwater gullies are to be installed between the station and Oxford Road, with completion planned for December 1."

Related Words