Meaning & Definition of word "Funnel"

Funnel

/ˈfʌn.əl/

noun:

  • 1. A narrow passage or pathway leading to a larger area.
    • Example: The funnel at the end of the slide made it easier for the children to slide down into the pool.
  • 2. A cone-shaped tool used to guide liquid or powder into a small opening.
    • Example: She used a funnel to pour the oil into the engine without spilling.
  • 3. A tubular structure or device designed to channel the flow of substances.
    • Example: The factory's smelting process requires a large funnel to direct the molten metal.

verb:

  • 1. To direct or channel (something) through a funnel-like shape.
    • Example: We need to funnel the sales data into a single reporting system.
  • 2. To concentrate or restrict to a smaller area or group.
    • Example: The team decided to funnel their efforts on developing the new app feature.

Etymology

Middle English funel, from Old French fonelle, diminutive of fons 'spring, fountain'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

funnel down:

To narrow down options to a more manageable size.

funnel money:

To direct funds towards a specific purpose.

sales funnel:

A marketing term describing the process of guiding customers toward a purchase.

Related Words

funneling:

The act of directing or channeling through a funnel.

spout:

A tube or hole through which liquid is poured.

conduit:

A channel for conveying water or other fluid.

Slang Meanings of funnel

Meaning: To guide or lead someone through a process.

Example Sentence: We're going to funnel him through the onboarding process.

Meaning: To narrow down choices in decision-making.

Example Sentence: Let's funnel our ideas before the meeting.