pour
UK[pɔː(r)]US[pɔːr]
v
to make a liquid or other substance flow from a container in a continuous stream, especially by holding the container at an angle
v
(of rain) to fall heavily
v
to come or go somewhere continuously in large numbers
Etymology
the verb 'pour' entered middle english around the late 13th century, with its origins shrouded in some uncertainty. it is not a classical compound but likely arose from onomatopoeia, mimicking the sound of liquid gushing or flowing freely. another plausible theory connects it to the latin verb 'purare', meaning 'to purify', which involved the pouring of liquids in rituals. over time, the word's meaning expanded from the literal act of causing a liquid to flow to describing anything moving or arriving in a copious, steady stream, such as rain or people.
Analysis
the word is a simplex form. it is of uncertain origin, possibly imitative of the sound of liquid flowing or from a latin root.
Examples
she carefully poured the tea into the delicate china cups.
it's absolutely pouring outside; you'll need an umbrella.
after the concert, fans poured out of the stadium into the streets.