brook
brook Lexical Profile
brook Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A small, natural freshwater stream, typically smaller than a river or creek, often flowing through woods or meadows.
"We paused during our hike to listen to the clear water babbling over the stones in the brook."
• verb
To tolerate, endure, or allow something disagreeable, especially opposition, delay, or interference (almost always used in negative contexts).
"The committee chairperson was known as a strict leader who would brook no dissent during formal proceedings."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a verb meaning 'to tolerate,' 'brook' is a negative polarity item used almost exclusively in negative or interrogative clauses (e.g., 'she will brook no interference').
• Rhymes for brook
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
The noun derives from Old English 'brōc' (stream), from a Proto-Germanic root related to breaking or gushing forth. The verb represents a separate etymon from Old English 'brūcan' (to use, enjoy, or digest), cognate with Latin 'fruor' (to enjoy).