drainage

noun

drain·​age ˈdrā-nij 

1

: the act, process, or mode of draining

also : something drained off

2

: a device for draining : drain

also : a system of drains

3

: an area or district drained

Examples of drainage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Look for feeders with holes or mesh on the bottom to allow for drainage. —Abby Fribush, Southern Living, 27 Mar. 2025

Heavy rain storms can cause flash floods and urban flooding in areas with limited drainage and low-lying areas are often most susceptible to flood events. —Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Mar. 2025

Over time, this buildup can lead to slow drainage or completely block the pipe, resulting in a call to a plumber for repairs. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Mar. 2025

The money was meant to fund better drainage, flood control systems and other storm mitigation measures. —Jesse Coburn, ProPublica, 25 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

drainage

noun

drain·​age ˈdrā-nij 

1

a

: the act of draining

b

: something drained off

2

: a method of draining

also : a system of drains

Medical Definition

drainage

noun

drain·​age ˈdrā-nij 

1

: the act or process of drawing off fluids from a cavity or wound by means of suction or gravity

2

: a process of releasing internal conflicts or pent-up feelings (as hostility or guilt)