Ford

Noun

Definition: A shallow place in a river or stream where it is possible to cross by wading or in a vehicle.

Synonyms: Crossing, Shallows

Antonyms: Deep water, Bridge

Examples:

The hikers found a ford in the river and crossed to the other side.
The car got stuck while attempting to cross the ford.

Mnemonics:

Imagine someone "fording" a river by wading through shallow water.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'ford', from Proto-Germanic 'furdō', which is derived from the Indo-European root 'per-'. The word has cognates in other Germanic languages such as German 'Furt' and Dutch 'voorde'. Its ultimate origin can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European language.

Historical Usage:

The term has been used throughout history to describe a shallow place in a river where crossing is possible. Fords were commonly used before bridges were built, and many places and landmarks have been named after prominent river fords.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Ford the river"

Explanation:

To cross a river by wading through the shallow part, typically used in outdoor or survival contexts.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'ford' with 'forward'.

Explanation:

'Ford' refers specifically to a shallow place in a river or stream where crossing is possible, while 'forward' denotes a direction or movement towards the front or ahead.