pool

The most common meaning for the word "pool" applies to a small body of water used for recreation and exercise:

• They’re in the pool.
• They’re swimming in a swimming pool.
• They’re the only ones at the pool right now.

Another form of recreation that uses the word "pool" is a game played on a table with balls and sticks (pool cues).

• They’re playing pool.
• They’re playing on a pool table.
• Another name for pool is billiards.

When the word "pool" is used as a verb, it means to gather or come together.

• We pooled our resources and bought a gift for someone who was leaving the company. (We gathered together some money.)
• Water is pooling at the base of the house. (Water is gathering near the house.)
• An office pool was put together to collect bets on who would win the Kentucky Derby. (office pool = a collection of money for the purpose of gambling)
• You can save money by participating in a carpool. (carpool = the sharing of a car or car-related expenses)

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May 16, 2015