Dictionary

The physical confine of a river or slough, consisting of a bed and banks.

Example: The water coming out of the waterwheel created a standing wave in the channel.

The natural or man-made deeper course through a reef, bar, bay, or any shallow body of water.

Example: A channel was dredged to allow ocean-going vessels to reach the city.

The navigable part of a river.

Example: We were careful to keep our boat in the channel.

A narrow body of water between two land masses.

Example: The English Channel lies between France and England.

To make or cut a channel or groove in.

To direct or guide along a desired course.

Example: We will channel the traffic to the left with these cones.

(of a spirit, as of a dead person) To serve as a medium for.

Example: She was channeling the spirit of her late husband, Seth.

To follow as a model, especially in a performance.

Example: He was trying to channel President Reagan, but the audience wasn't buying it.

The wale of a sailing ship which projects beyond the gunwale and to which the shrouds attach via the chains. One of the flat ledges of heavy plank bolted edgewise to the outside of a vessel, to increase the spread of the shrouds and carry them clear of the bulwarks.

Formal lines of command and procedure.

Example: I'd love to be able to help you, but you'll have put that request through channels.