Definition

A pipe or channel that carries water to a water wheel or turbine, often used to control the flow of water.

Example

The engineers installed a new penstock to improve the efficiency of the hydroelectric plant.

Conversation

Did you see the new hydropower plant they built by the river?

Yeah, I heard it's really impressive with a huge penstock.

I wonder how they control the water flow with that penstock.

I think it's crucial for making sure the turbines work efficiently.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Penstock → The word is formed from "pen" (from Old French *penn*, meaning a place for animals) and "stock" (from Old English *stoc*, meaning a place or site). A penstock refers to a conduit or pipe that carries water, often associated with a place where water is stored or directed, similar to how a pen is a place for animals.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pen' as a place where animals are kept and 'stock' as a site or place. This helps you remember that a penstock is a conduit that directs water, much like a pen directs animals.

Visually Confused Words