pour

To pour usually means to let liquid flow from one place to another, often by tipping a container. You might pour water into a glass, pour milk on cereal, or watch rain pour down outside. It can also mean that something arrives quickly and in large amounts, as when messages or complaints pour in.

The word is also common in a figurative way. Someone can pour time and energy into a project, or pour their heart out to a friend. In each case, the idea is the same: something moves out freely and in a strong, steady way.

The word "pour" has a versatile range of meanings, all centered around the idea of flowing out readily and often abundantly. Most commonly, it describes the action of dispensing a liquid by tilting a container. You might pour coffee into a mug each morning or pour water for your plants. The speed and volume suggest a free-flowing movement, distinct from a mere drip or trickle. For example: "She carefully poured the wine into the crystal glasses."

However, "pour" extends beyond liquids. It can describe heavy rainfall: "The rain poured down in sheets," creating a visual of water cascading from the sky. Figuratively, it means to deliver something generously or abundantly. Compliments might pour in after a successful presentation, or someone might pour their heart out when sharing their deepest feelings. This suggests an unrestrained and sincere expression.

As a verb, "to pour" also implies effort and dedication: "He poured all his energy into the project," meaning he devoted himself completely to it. It can also describe the movement of large groups of people, such as a crowd pouring out of a stadium after a concert. Note that "pour" is often confused with "pore" (as in to pore over a book), but "pour" always relates to the essence of something flowing out freely—in both literal and figurative senses. Whether you are filling a glass, describing a downpour, or dedicating yourself to a task, "pour" conveys a sense of unrestrained volume and movement.