gutter
UK[ˈɡʌtə]US[ˈɡʌtər]
n
A shallow channel fixed to the edge of a roof to carry away rainwater.
n
A channel at the side of a street for carrying off surface water.
n
A state of extreme poverty, degradation, or neglect.
Etymology
The word 'gutter' traces a clear path from a concrete physical concept to its modern abstract meanings. It originates from the Latin 'gutta', meaning 'a drop' (as of liquid), which passed into Anglo-Norman French as 'goter'. This term evolved to denote a channel for carrying away drops of rainwater. The English adoption in the 13th century solidified its primary meaning as a drainage channel. The semantic extension to signify a state of extreme poverty or social degradation (e.g., "the gutter press") is a metaphorical development from the 18th century, equating the lowest physical level of a street's drainage system with the lowest social or moral condition.
Analysis
The word 'gutter' is a simplex form derived from the Anglo-Norman French 'goter' or 'goutiere', meaning 'a drop' or 'water channel'. It is ultimately from the Latin 'gutta', meaning 'a drop'.
Examples
The heavy rain caused the water to overflow from the gutter.
He carefully cleaned the leaves and debris from the street gutter.
After losing his job and home, he feared he would end up in the gutter.