Definition

Describing a body of water that is not deep, where the bottom can be easily seen or reached.

Example

The shoal water made it easy for the children to play safely.

Conversation

I love going to the beach, especially when the water is so shoal near the shore.

Yeah, it’s perfect for kids to play in without worrying too much.

Exactly! We should plan a day out there soon.

Definitely! I can't wait to relax in that shoal water.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To become shallow or to gather in large numbers, often referring to fish or other animals.

Example

The fish shoal together near the coral reef during the summer months.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you noticed how the river shoals in some areas?

Yeah, it's interesting to see where it gets shallow.

I wonder if it affects the fish that shoal there.

Definition

A large group of fish or other marine animals, or a shallow area in a body of water that can be dangerous for boats.

Example

The fishermen found a shoal of fish near the reef.

Conversation

Did you see that big shoal of fish near the shore yesterday?

Yeah, it was amazing! I’ve never seen so many fish together like that.

I wonder if they were looking for food around the shoal area.

Definition

To make a body of water shallower, often by causing sediment to accumulate or by moving into a shallower area.

Example

The boat shoaled as it approached the shore, making it difficult to navigate.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the storm that hit the coast last week?

Yeah, I heard it really changed the landscape.

I wonder if it shoaled the area near the harbor.

Root Explanation

The word 'shoal' originates from Old English 'sceald', meaning a shallow place in water. It refers to a shallow area where fish may gather, hence the modern usage of the term.

Memory Tip

Picture a shallow area in water where fish gather — that's what a shoal is.

Visually Confused Words