Tube

Definition

Tube refers to a hollow, cylindrical structure often used to transport liquids, gases, or other materials. It can also mean a container, a tunnel, or, in British English, the underground subway system.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tuːb/ or /tjuːb/
• Respelling: TOOB or TYOOB

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /tjuːb/
• Respelling: TYOOB

Etymology

The word "tube" originates from the Latin "tubus," meaning "pipe" or "tube." It entered Old French as "tube" and Middle English through scientific and engineering contexts, maintaining its meaning of a hollow cylinder.

Derivatives

• Tubular (adjective)
• Tubing (noun)
• Tubed (adjective)
• Tube-like (adjective)
• Retube (verb)

Synonyms

• Pipe
• Cylinder
• Tunnel

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The noun "tube" is used in various contexts, such as "The toothpaste comes in a tube" or "She commutes daily on the tube." As a verb, it describes the act of putting something in a tube or forming into a tubular shape, such as "The material was tubed for transport."

Related Terms

• Pipe: A hollow cylinder typically used to convey fluids.
• Conduit: A channel for conveying fluids or wires.
• Channel: A passage for fluids or materials.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A hollow cylindrical structure: Refers to a pipe-like object used for conveying fluids, gases, or other materials.
  • Example: "The engineer installed a copper tube to carry water."
• A container with a cylindrical shape: Refers to packaging for substances like toothpaste or creams.
  • Example: "The artist squeezed paint from a tube."
• A subway system (British English): Describes an underground public transit network.
  • Example: "She takes the tube to work every morning."
• A tunnel or passageway: Refers to an enclosed pathway often used for transportation or access.
  • Example: "The car passed through a long tube under the mountain."

Verb

• To place something in a tube: Refers to the act of enclosing materials in a cylindrical container.
  • Example: "The product was tubed for distribution."
• To form into a tubular shape: Describes shaping or configuring into a cylindrical structure.
  • Example: "The fabric was tubed for the design."