Ditch

/dɪtʃ/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A narrow channel dug in the ground, typically used for drainage.

The heavy rains caused the ditch to overflow and flood the nearby fields.

An unpleasant or difficult situation.

After losing his job, he felt like he was in a deep ditch with no way out.

verb

To abandon or discard something or someone.

He decided to ditch his old car and buy a new one.

To leave someone or something behind, especially in a sudden or dismissive manner.

She ditched her date at the restaurant and walked out.

Middle English 'dic', from Old English 'dicc' meaning 'a trench'.

ditch someone

To leave someone abruptly or without notice.

ditch class

To skip or not attend a class.

ditch the baggage

To let go of problems or things that hinder progress.

channel

A long, narrow body of water.

gutter

A shallow trough at the side of a street that collects rainwater.

trench

A long, narrow excavation in the ground.

To abandon plans or commitments.

I think I'm going to ditch the meeting and go to the beach instead.

To leave a place quickly.

After the argument, he decided to ditch the party.