sewer etymology

Etymology:

The word "sewer" derives from the Middle English term "sower," which in turn comes from the Old English word "seowere," meaning "one who sows."

Meaning and Origin:

Originally, a sewer was a person or servant responsible for caring for the royal table and household. The term was used in this context from the 14th to the 16th centuries.

Over time, the meaning of "sewer" evolved to refer to a constructed conduit that carries wastewater, sewage, and runoff. This usage is first recorded in the 16th century.

The shift in meaning can be attributed to the analogy between the flow of food to the royal table and the flow of wastewater through a pipe. Just as a sewer would oversee the distribution of nourishment, so too did the sewer (in its later meaning) facilitate the disposal of waste.

In the modern context, a sewer is a subterranean structure designed to collect and transport sewage from homes, businesses, and other buildings. Sewers are typically installed underground and consist of a network of pipes, manholes, and other components.

Additional Notes:

• The word "sewer" can also refer to a seam or join in fabric, especially one made by sewing.
• The related term "sewage" derives from the Middle English word "sewages," meaning "drains or channels."
• Some languages have different words for "sewer" and "sewage." For example, in French, "sewer" is "égout," while "sewage" is "eaux usées."

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