Definition

Relating to the lowest social class or marked by vulgarity and indecency.

Example

The movie was criticized for its gutter humor that many found offensive.

Conversation

Did you see that new movie everyone’s talking about?

Yeah, I heard it has some gutter humor that people either love or hate.

It really does! I can't believe some of the jokes made it to the final cut.

I know, right? It's definitely not for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To flow or burn in a way that is unsteady or flickering, often in small streams or channels.

Example

The candle began to gutter as the wind blew through the window.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you see how the candle started to gutter during dinner?

Yeah, it was flickering so much; I thought it might go out.

I know, right? I had to keep an eye on it so it wouldn’t gutter completely.

Definition

A narrow channel or trough that collects and carries away water, often found along the edges of streets or roofs.

Example

The heavy rain caused the gutter to overflow, flooding the street.

Conversation

Did you see all that water in the gutter after the rain yesterday?

Yeah, it was overflowing everywhere!

I hope it doesn’t flood the street again; those gutters can’t handle too much water at once.

Definition

To create channels or grooves in a surface, often for drainage or to guide water.

Example

The workers will gutter the road to prevent flooding during heavy rain.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I saw that they gutter the roads in our neighborhood last week.

Really? I didn’t notice that yet.

Yeah, it looks way better and helps with the rainwater drainage.

Root Explanation

Gutter → The word originates from Old French *goutière*, meaning a channel for water. It refers to a channel or trough for carrying off rainwater or waste.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'channel for water' — that's what a gutter does, it carries water away.

Visually Confused Words