channel

I UK [ˈtʃæn(ə)l] / US noun [countable]
Word forms "channel":
singular channel plural channels
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1) a television station and the programmes that it broadcasts

Let's see what's on the other channels.

He changed the channel to a news programme.

2) [usually plural] a method used for communicating information or for sending or receiving something

We can reach these markets through our existing distribution channels.

The government is using diplomatic channels to negotiate a ceasefire.

channel of:

It is important to maintain clear channels of communication.

go through the proper channels (= use the correct method):

It could take weeks if you went through the proper channels.

3)

a) a narrow passage made in the ground so that water can go along it

irrigation channels that supply the crops with water

b) a long narrow cut in a surface

the channel in which the door slides

4)

a) a narrow area of water joining two seas

b) a narrow area of deeper water in a river, port etc that ships can use

5) a way of showing people what you are feeling or thinking, or of using your energy or ability

channel for:

She was seeking a channel for her creative energies.

II UK [ˈtʃæn(ə)l] / US verb [transitive]
Word forms "channel":
present tense I/you/we/they channel he/she/it channels present participle channelling past tense channelled past participle channelled
*

1) to use money or supplies for a particular purpose

channel something into something:

The company has channelled £1.2 million into developing new products.

2) to use your energy, ability, feelings, or ideas for a particular purpose

channel something into something:

She channelled all her energies into her career.

3) to make something follow a particular system

channel something through something:

All information on courses is channelled through the admissions office.

All the company's sales are channelled through outside distributors.

4) [usually passive] to send something such as water along a passage

channel something into/to something:

Water is channelled into the lakes from the canals.

5) to allow the spirit of a dead person to speak using your voice, as some people claim to be able to do