■ noun
1》 a length of water wider than a strait, joining two larger areas of water, especially two seas.
↘( the Channel ) the English Channel.
↘a navigable passage in a stretch of water otherwise unsafe for vessels.
2》 a band of frequencies used in radio and television transmission, especially as used by a particular station.
3》 a medium for communication or the passage of information.
4》 an electric circuit which acts as a path for a signal.
5》 Biology a tubular passage or duct for liquid.
■ verb ( ~s , ~ling , ~led ; US ~s , ~ing , ~ed )
1》 direct towards a particular end.
↘cause to pass along or through a specified route or medium: many countries ~ their aid through charities.
2》 [usu. as adjective ~led ] form ~s or grooves in.
3》 serve as a medium for (a spirit).
Derivatives
~ler noun
Origin
ME: from OFr. chanel , from L. canalis 'pipe, groove, ~', from canna (see cane ); cf. canal .