Merriam-Webster's Collegiate® Dictionary, 11th Edition
BROOK
I. noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English brōc; akin to Old High German bruoh marshy ground Date: before 12th century creek 2,
II. transitive verb
Etymology: Middle English brouken to use, enjoy, from Old English brūcan; akin to Old High German brūhhan to use, Latin frui to enjoy
Date: 15th century
to stand for ; tolerate