Synonyms for the word "brook" include stream, creek, rivulet, rill, runnel, bourne, and tributary. These words all refer to a small, shallow body of water that flows naturally along a path. A brook is generally considered to be smaller than a river, and may have a rocky or pebbly bottom. Depending on the region, different words may be used to describe this type of body of water, such as "burn" in Scotland or "beck" in northern England. While the word "brook" is most commonly used in the United States, these other synonyms offer a variety of options for describing a meandering and peaceful waterway.