pond

American  

[pond] / pɒnd /

noun

1. a body of water smaller than a lake, sometimes artificially formed, as by damming a stream.

2. Informal. the pond, the Atlantic Ocean.

   American companies are finding business is different on the other side of the pond.

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verb (used without object)

1. (especially of water) to collect into a pond or large puddle.

   to prevent rainwater from ponding on the roof.

pond British  

/ pɒnd /

noun

1. 1. a pool of still water, often artificially created

   2. ( in combination )

      a fishpond

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pond Scientific  

/ pŏnd /

1. An inland body of standing water that is smaller than a lake. Natural ponds form in small depressions and are usually shallow enough to support rooted vegetation across most or all of their areas.

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pond Idioms  

1. see big fish in a small pond; little frog in a big pond.

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Etymology

Origin of pond

First recorded in 1250–1300; Middle English ponde, pande, akin to Old English pynding “dam,” gepyndan “to impound.” See pound ³

Example Sentences

Analysts and investors have cited deeper investor liquidity and proximity to customers as forces driving European companies to look across the pond.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 8, 2026

In 1845, age 27, he built himself a 10-by-15-foot cabin by the pond, on land owned by Emerson, where he would live for two years, two months and two days.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 30, 2026

Former England captain Sir David and Spice Girl-turned-fashion designer Lady Victoria plan to install the festooned lighting around the pond at their home in Great Tew near Chipping Norton.

From BBC • Mar. 28, 2026

She was a big fish in a small and comfortable pond.

From Salon • Mar. 24, 2026

Christopher had smiled, whistled at the swans, and led them out of the pond and into some nearby bushes.

From "Impossible Creatures" by Katherine Rundell

Related Words

• basin
• lagoon
• pool
• puddle