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shadoof

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ʃəˈduːf/

KK: /ʃəˈduːf/

noun
Definition

A tool used to lift water from a well or river, consisting of a long pole with a bucket on one end and a weight on the other to help balance it.


Example

Farmers in ancient Egypt used a shadoof to irrigate their fields by lifting water from the Nile.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen how a shadoof works in Egypt?
Sloth B
No, I haven't! What is it exactly?
Sloth A
It's a traditional device used to lift water for irrigation.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I'd love to see one in action.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lever
pulley
crane
Antonyms
sink
drop
descend
Root Explanation

The word 'shadoof' originates from Arabic 'shaduf', meaning a hand-operated device for lifting water. It refers specifically to a tool used in irrigation, particularly in ancient agricultural practices.

Memory Tip

Imagine a simple device used to 'lift water' — that's what a shadoof does, helping farmers irrigate their fields.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

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