English Reference
noun · verb

pool

n. · v.
US /ˈpuɫ/ UK /pˈuːl/ pool UK spelling pooled, pools

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    n.an artificial area of water for swimming.

    n.a man-made container or structure filled with water for swimming, diving, or other water-based recreation.

    Simple

    The kids spent the whole afternoon playing in the hotel pool.

    In context

    The luxury resort features an infinity pool that appears to merge seamlessly with the horizon of the Mediterranean Sea.

  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.a small amount of liquid on the ground or a surface.

    n.a small, typically stagnant accumulation of liquid on a surface.

    Simple

    A pool of water formed on the kitchen floor under the leaking fridge.

    In context

    The heavy rain left deep pools in the uneven pavement, forcing pedestrians to navigate the street with caution.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a group of people or things that are available to be used by others.

    n.a collective group of resources, funds, or individuals available for shared use or selection.

    Simple

    The company has a large pool of talented workers to choose from.

    In context

    By creating a shared car pool, the employees significantly reduced their monthly commuting expenses and carbon footprint.

  4. 04 A2 Elementary Sport

    n.a game played with a long stick and balls on a felt table with six holes.

    n.any of several varieties of cue sports played on a billiard table with six pockets.

    Simple

    We went to the bar to drink beer and play a few games of pool.

    In context

    He demonstrated remarkable precision, clearing the entire pool table in a single turn during the local tournament finals.

  5. 05 B1 Intermediate Sport

    n.a group of teams that play against each other in a competition.

    n.a grouping of contestants or teams in a tournament who compete against one another to qualify for the next stage.

    Simple

    Our national team is in a very difficult pool for the World Cup.

    In context

    The tournament organisers placed the top-seeded players in separate pools to ensure they would not face each other until the knockout rounds.

  6. 06 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to put money or things together so they can be shared by a group.

    v.to combine resources, money, or efforts into a common fund or effort for mutual advantage.

    Simple

    If we pool our money, we can afford to buy a much better gift.

    In context

    The three independent research labs decided to pool their data to accelerate the development of the new vaccine.


In all likelihood from the noun pool.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated