The spelling of the word "manhole cover" is phonetically transcribed as /ˈmænhoʊl ˈkʌvər/. The first syllable, "man," is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/ as in "cat." The second syllable, "hole," is pronounced with the long o sound /oʊ/ as in "boat." The final syllable, "cover," is pronounced with the schwa sound /ə/ followed by the consonant cluster "v-r," making the sound /kəvər/. Altogether, the word is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable and the last syllable reduced in sound.
A manhole cover is a heavy, round or square lid that is placed on top of a manhole or sewer access point, primarily for safety and convenience purposes. Serving as an entry point or access to underground utility systems, including sewers, drains, pipelines, or underground storage tanks, manhole covers prevent unauthorized access to these areas by individuals or objects. They are typically comprised of durable materials such as cast iron, steel, or reinforced concrete to withstand the weight and pressure of vehicles, pedestrians, or objects above ground.
Manhole covers are designed to be robust and secure, ensuring the safety of both the public and infrastructure. They are often marked with specific symbols or words denoting the type of utility they provide access to, aiding in identification and usage. Manhole covers are essential for routine inspections, maintenance, repairs, and cleaning of underground networks, allowing workers to enter confined spaces and carry out necessary tasks.
These covers come in various sizes and shapes depending on the requirements of the utility they protect, spanning from small covers used for telecommunications or electrical access points to large covers specifically designed for sewage or drainage systems. Additionally, manhole covers are engineered with features like anti-slip surfaces or locking mechanisms to prevent accidental injuries or tampering.
In summary, manhole covers are heavy, protective lids positioned over access points to underground utility systems, safeguarding public safety and allowing for maintenance and repair activities within these vital infrastructures.
The word "manhole cover" is a compound noun formed by combining the words "manhole" and "cover".
The word "manhole" originally referred to a hole or opening in a street or pavement that allowed access to underground utility or maintenance tunnels. The term "manhole" dates back to medieval times and is derived from the Old English word "man", meaning human, and "hole", referring to an opening or passage. The word "manhole" was used because these openings were typically large enough for a person to enter.
The word "cover" simply means a lid or closure that is placed over an opening to secure or protect it.
Therefore, when you combine "manhole" and "cover", you get "manhole cover", which specifically refers to the lid or top of a manhole that is used to cover the opening when it is not in use.