What is shower? Pronunciation and usage in English

shower means . Learn how to pronounce and use shower through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of shower

showernoun

/ˈʃaʊə/
Definition & pronunciation of shower

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "shower" in English. It's a tricky one because it's often mispronounced! Here’s a breakdown:

Correct Pronunciation: /ˈʃaʊər/ (sh-ow-er)

Let's break it down syllable by syllable:

  • “Sh”: Pronounced like the “sh” in “ship” – a quick, sharp “sh” sound.
  • “ow”: Pronounced like the “ow” in “cow” or “now”. It’s a long “o” sound.
  • “er”: Pronounced like the “er” in “her”.

Key things to avoid:

  • Don't say "sour": Many people mistakenly pronounce it like “sour,” which is a common mistake.
  • Don’t lengthen the “o” sound: It's a short “o” sound, not a drawn-out one.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Listen to native speakers: The best way to learn is to hear it. Search for "how to pronounce shower" on YouTube or use online dictionaries (like Merriam-Webster or Oxford) that offer audio pronunciations.
  • Practice: Say it out loud several times, repeating the syllables slowly and then speeding up.

Resources:

Do you want me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation for you?
  • Give you some example sentences using the word "shower"?

Usage and examples with the word shower in English

Let's break down how to use the word "shower" in English. It has several different meanings, and context is key! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Most Common Meaning: A Bathroom Appliance

  • Definition: This is the most familiar use. It refers to the device in a bathroom that sprays water.
  • Examples:
    • "I'm going to take a shower this morning."
    • "The shower head is broken."
    • "Let's clean the shower after you're done."
    • "He likes to stand under the hot shower."

2. The Act of Washing Yourself

  • Definition: To get wet and wash your body with water.
  • Examples:
    • "She likes to shower every day."
    • "I'm going to shower before I go out."
    • "He took a quick shower and then got dressed."

3. (Informal) A Large Amount of Something

  • Definition: This usage is more colloquial and means a large quantity or amount. It’s often used humorously or to exaggerate.
  • Examples:
    • "I got a shower of confetti at the party!" (Meaning a large amount of confetti fell on me)
    • "The puppy got a shower of toys." (Meaning a large pile of toys were thrown at the puppy.)
    • "He got a shower of abuse from his boss." (Meaning he received a lot of criticism)
    • "The floor got a shower of dust when I opened the window."

4. (Less Common) Storm/Rain

  • Definition: In certain regions (particularly British English), "shower" can refer to a brief or light rain.
  • Examples:
    • "It's going to be a summer shower later this afternoon."
    • "We had a quick shower."

Here's a table summarizing the different meanings:

Meaning Definition Example
Bathroom Appliance Device for spraying water "Let’s clean the shower."
Act of Washing Getting wet and washing body "I'm taking a shower."
Large Quantity A large amount (informal) “I got a shower of compliments!”
Brief Rain Light rain (British English) "It’s going to be a summer shower."

Tips for Using "Shower" Correctly:

  • Context is crucial: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand which meaning is intended.
  • Formal vs. Informal: “Shower” as a large quantity is generally informal.
  • Regional Variations: The rain meaning is more common in British English.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples of a specific usage?
  • Explain how to use “shower” in a particular sentence?
  • Practice with a quiz?

Synonyms for the word shower

Practice with vocabulary shower

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. After a strenuous workout, a refreshing __________ helps you feel clean and energized.
  2. The architect designed the master bathroom with a walk-in __________ and a double vanity.
  3. Before applying the next coat of paint, make sure to __________ the surface thoroughly to remove any dust.
  4. Instead of a quick wash, she preferred a long, hot __________ to relax her muscles after hiking.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. Which of these words refers to a brief period of rain, or a celebratory party for a future bride or parent? a) drizzle b) sprinkle c) shower d) downpour

  2. In the context of personal hygiene, which of the following typically involves standing under flowing water to clean your body? a) a bath b) a scrub c) a shower d) a soak

  3. A facilities manager is considering eco-friendly options for the building's restrooms. Which of these would directly reduce water consumption? (Select all that apply) a) motion-sensor lighting b) low-flow toilets c) water-saving shower heads d) automatic hand dryers

  4. Before applying a fresh coat of sealant, it's essential to __________ the surface thoroughly to remove all residues. a) dry b) polish c) cleanse d) prime

  5. To fully submerge oneself in water for relaxation or therapeutic purposes, one would typically prepare a __________ in a tub. a) spray b) rinse c) bath d) dip

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. Original: She prepared for her important presentation by washing up and getting dressed. Rewrite using "shower" or related word forms:

  2. Original: The meteorologist predicted brief periods of precipitation throughout the day. Rewrite using "shower" or related word forms:

  3. Original: After a long day, he decided to relax by submerging himself in the tub filled with warm water. Rewrite NOT using "shower" but a suitable replacement:

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. shower
  2. shower
  3. cleanse
  4. bath

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. c) shower
  2. c) shower
  3. b) low-flow toilets, c) water-saving shower heads
  4. c) cleanse
  5. c) bath

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. She prepared for her important presentation by taking a shower and getting dressed.
  2. The meteorologist predicted intermittent showers throughout the day.
  3. After a long day, he decided to relax by taking a long bath in the tub filled with warm water.

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