Pronunciation: [kʌnˈɛt] (IPA) 
Cunette is a pavement feature consisting of a small channel or gutter, often found alongside roads. The word is pronounced as /kjuːˈnɛt/, with the first syllable being pronounced as "kyoo". The "c" in "cunette" is pronounced as "k", and the second syllable has a short "e" sound. The final "e" is silent. The spelling of "cunette" can be confusing for non-native English speakers, as it does not follow the typical English spelling patterns.
A cunette is a term used in civil engineering and construction to refer to a trench or channel that is designed and constructed to collect and channel water or other fluids. It is typically a narrow and shallow excavation or groove in the ground, which is lined with materials such as concrete, stone, or plastic to provide stability and prevent erosion.
Cunettes are commonly used in various drainage systems to control the flow of water, directing it away from an area or towards a designated outlet. They can be found in urban infrastructure, such as roadways, where they are positioned along the edges to collect rainwater and prevent flooding. Cunettes can also be installed in agricultural fields to control irrigation or in landscaping projects to manage the flow of water in gardens or parks.
The design and dimensions of cunettes vary depending on the specific purpose and location. They can range from shallow, narrow channels to wider and deeper trenches, depending on the anticipated volume of water or fluid to be handled. Cunettes are often combined with other drainage structures, such as catch basins, culverts, or pipes, to efficiently manage water runoff and prevent damage to the surrounding environment.
Overall, cunettes play a vital role in facilitating proper drainage and preventing water accumulation in various settings, contributing to the overall function and maintenance of infrastructure systems.
The term "cunette" derives from the Latin word "cunnus", which means "vulva" or "female genitalia". It underwent a phonetic transformation over time and reached the French language as "cunette". In French, "cunette" initially referred to a small gutter or channel designed to carry away water. The term then extended its meaning to other similar features such as a ditch or a trench. Eventually, it was adopted into English with a similar definition, and now "cunette" signifies a specific kind of channel or trench used in various applications, such as in transportation infrastructure or drainage systems.
