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

To clean the filter, locate it (either in the center agitator, in the drum’s top lip, behind a trap door on the front of the machine, or near the water pump or drainage hose). —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 June 2026

No flooding is expected, though some minor urban and poor drainage flooding can briefly appear during heavier downpours. —Eric Fisher, CBS News, 22 June 2026

Locally heavy rain will quickly reduce visibility and result in ponding of water on roadways, standing water in low lying areas, and minor flooding of creeks, streams, and areas of poor drainage. —Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 22 June 2026

Plants should both look great and suit your property’s soil type, drainage and sunlight exposure. —The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 June 2026

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)