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

City officials say the new method will be used for large and complex upcoming projects like the Hodges Dam replacement, convention center expansion and new drainage channels in parts of southeastern San Diego that flooded in January 2024. —David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Oct. 2025

Since crews connected the bridge deck in summer 2024, workers have been installing electrical, drainage and fire suppression systems, along with fencing and barriers for the multi-use path. —Nour Rahal, Freep.com, 14 Oct. 2025

Gua sha helps reduce puffiness and inflammation, improves blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, and eases tension, among other advantages. —Essence, 14 Oct. 2025

In this condition, called neovascular glaucoma, blood vessels can block the eye’s drainage system, causing fluid to build up and creating pressure in the eye that can cause significant pain and sensitivity to light. —Liz Szabo, Scientific American, 14 Oct. 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)