brook
UK[brʊk]US[brʊk]
v
To tolerate or allow something, usually used in negative contexts.
n
A small stream.
Etymology
The modern word 'brook' represents a fascinating convergence of two distinct Old English words. The noun, meaning a small stream, descends from Old English 'brōc', which referred to a stream or a marshy ground. This term is of Germanic origin, related to Dutch 'broek' (marsh) and German 'Bruch' (marshland). The verb, meaning to tolerate or endure, comes from Old English 'brūcan', meaning to use, enjoy, or endure, which is related to Dutch 'bruiken' and German 'brauchen' (to need). Over centuries, the spelling of these two separate words merged into the identical modern form 'brook', while their meanings remained distinct, creating a clear example of a homograph in the English language.
Analysis
This is a simplex word of Old English origin. The verb and noun are homographs that developed from distinct Old English roots.
Examples
He would brook no interference in his personal affairs.
We followed the winding brook through the forest.
She has a temperament that brooks no foolishness.