pipeline
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpaɪplaɪn/
KK: /ˈpaɪplaɪn/
noun
Definition
A system of pipes used to transport liquids, gases, or other materials from one place to another.
Example
The oil company built a new pipeline to transport crude oil across the country.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new pipeline they’re constructing downtown?
Yeah, I read something about it; it’s supposed to improve water supply.
Exactly! I wonder how long it will take to finish the pipeline though.
Hopefully not too long, because the city really needs it.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
conduit
channel
system
Antonyms
blockage
obstruction
impediment
transitive verb
Definition
To transport or deliver something through a system of pipes or similar channels.
Example
The company plans to pipeline the new product to various markets.
Tense Forms
Past: pipelined
Past Participle: pipelined
Conversation
Did you hear about the new construction project downtown?
Yeah, they’re going to pipeline water through the neighborhood.
That sounds like a big job!
Root Explanation
Pipeline → It is formed from "pipe" (from Old French *pipe*, meaning a tube or conduit) and "-line" (from Latin *linea*, meaning a line or string). The word "pipeline" refers to a line or conduit that carries fluids or gases through a tube.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'tube' ('pipe') that forms a 'line' ('-line') for transporting something, which helps you remember that a pipeline is a system for carrying fluids.
Visually Confused Words
popeline
piline
pimplinae
piprine
pierine