WordGarden.iopuddle
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈʌdəl/
US
- /ˈpədəl/
Meanings
Noun
a small pool of water on the ground or another surface
Beyond the definition
A puddle is a small, shallow collection of water on the ground, often seen after it rains. Kids love jumping in puddles, and dogs sometimes splash through them too. They are not deep enough to swim in, but they can reflect the sky or leave muddy footprints. You might step around one carefully, or jump right over it.
Think of a tiny, temporary pond made by rain, melting snow, or even a leak. Some disappear quickly in the sun, while others stay longer. A very large one might be called a pool, but in general, these are small and shallow.
Puddles are small collections of liquid, most commonly water, that have accumulated in hollows or depressions on a surface. They're usually formed by rainfall, melting snow, or leaks, and are typically temporary—disappearing as the liquid evaporates or drains away. You'll often see puddles forming on roads, sidewalks, parking lots, and even in fields after a storm.
The word "puddle" evokes a sense of playfulness and childhood. Remember the joy of splashing through puddles as a kid? But puddles aren't just for fun! They can also be indicators of drainage problems or potential hazards—like slippery surfaces.
Beyond literal water, "puddle" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe a small concentration of something else. For example, you might say "a puddle of light" referring to a concentrated beam shining on the floor. However, this usage is less common.
Puddles are often described with adjectives like muddy, shallow, clear, or reflective. They're a fleeting part of our environment, reminding us of the constant cycle of water and weather. So next time you see one, take a moment to appreciate its simple beauty—or grab your boots and jump in!
Examples
- 1
Rainy street
Be careful by the curb after it rains, because a deep puddle always forms there.
- 2
Commuting
I stepped in a puddle on the way to work and got my socks wet.
- 3
Children
The kids were jumping over puddles in the playground.
- 4
Car leak
A puddle of oil had formed under the car.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Emotional reaction
By the end of the movie, I was a puddle.
- Phrasebe a puddle
feel so emotional that you can hardly stay calm
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- puddlenounverb
Forms
- puddlespluralnounverb
- puddling-ing formverbnoun
- puddledpast tenseverbnoun