TRENCH | Definition and Meaning

Definition of Trench

Trench

Tren·ch

Definition/Meaning

(noun)

A long, narrow depression in the ground, especially one used for military defense.

e.g. The soldiers dug a trench to protect themselves from enemy fire.

(noun)

a network of ditches cut into the ground that form an army's line, especially in France and Belgium during World War I, or a position/level of some activity that is casually likened to such a wartime scenario in the intensity of way it is carried out (often used as "the trenches" in both senses);

e.g. The two men fought together in the trenches during the world war. Many journalists are working in the trenches to provide coverage of the event.

(noun)

a long and narrow depression in the ocean bed, usually deep with steep sides;

e.g. There is an underwater trench in that section of the ocean.

(noun)

a long waterproof coat, usually double-breasted, and characterized by a wide belt and deep pockets, also called a trench coat;

e.g. She wore a trench made of fine dark gray material.

(verb)

to carve or cut something, especially to dig a long narrow ditch or a series of similar ditches in the ground;

e.g. He used a small spade to trench the flower bed.

(verb)

to border something or come very close to it, often to the point of entering into its territory, either literally or figuratively;