flow

 
Pronunciation: /fləʊ/

verb

[no object]
  • 1(of a liquid, gas, or electricity) move steadily and continuously in a current or stream: from here the river flows north ventilation channels keep the air flowing
  • (of the sea or a tidal river) move towards the land; rise. Compare with ebb
  • 2 [with adverbial of direction] go from one place to another in a steady stream, typically in large numbers: people flowed into the huge courtyard
  • proceed or be produced continuously and effortlessly: talk flowed freely around the table
  • (of clothing or hair) hang loosely in an easy and graceful manner: her red hair flowed over her shoulders
  • be available in copious quantities: their talk and laughter grew louder as the excellent brandy flowed
  • (flow from) be caused by: there are certain advantages that may flow from that decision
  • 3(of a solid) undergo a permanent change of shape under stress, without melting.

noun

  • 1 [in singular] the action or fact of moving along in a steady, continuous stream: the flow of water into the pond
  • the rate or speed at which something flows: under the ford the river backs up, giving a deep sluggish flow
  • the rise of a tide or a river. Compare with ebb
  • 2a steady, continuous stream or supply of something: a constant flow of people the flow of words was interrupted by painful sobs
  • 3Scottish a watery swamp; a morass.
  • 4the gradual permanent deformation of a solid under stress, without melting.

Phrases

go with the flow

informal be relaxed and accept a situation, rather than trying to alter or control it.

in full flow

talking fluently and showing no sign of stopping.
performing vigorously and enthusiastically.

Origin:

Old English flōwan, of Germanic origin; related to Dutch vloeien, also to flood