Dows

Part of speech: verb

Definitions

  1. To search for underground water or minerals using a divining rod or similar method
  2. The practice of locating water sources or minerals through the use of a forked stick or other instruments
  3. Engaging in the art of divination to find hidden resources beneath the surface of the earth

Etymology: The verb "dows" is a less common form related to the practice of dowsing, which refers to the act of seeking underground water, minerals, or other hidden substances using a divining rod or similar tool. The origin of this word lies in the mysterious and ancient practice of dowsing, which has roots stretching back centuries, though the exact beginning is difficult to pin down. The term "dowse" itself likely emerged in English around the late Middle Ages, possibly from dialectal sources related to the act of striking or tapping, which connects to how dowsers manipulate rods or sticks to detect unseen materials. Some etymologists suggest a link to Scandinavian or Old English roots, with words that mean "to strike" or "to plunge," reflecting the physical actions involved in the practice. Dowsing became particularly popular in Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries when people sought ways to locate water sources in times of drought or for mining operations. The practice involved holding a forked stick or metal rods that would supposedly move or react when the dowser passed over underground water or minerals. The verb form captures the action of using these tools or performing the act of searching in this way. Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically to include any attempt to find something hidden or elusive, not just water or minerals. The verb "to dowse" can also mean to drench or extinguish, particularly in the context of pouring liquid over something, which likely comes from a different but phonetically similar root. This dual sense—both seeking and soaking—illustrates how the word evolved to encompass related but distinct actions. The relatively rare verb form "dows" is simply a conjugated form of "dowse," used as a third-person singular present tense. Its usage today is often confined to contexts involving dowsing or, less commonly, to literary or archaic references to drenching or extinguishing.

Synonyms: searches, finds, locates