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

Used consistently, the CryoGlow can even boost circulation and support lymphatic drainage, leaving skin looking fresher and more awake. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 1 Oct. 2025

Camellias are susceptible to root diseases, making good soil drainage essential. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 1 Oct. 2025

Some applicants may be eligible for a 20% loan increase for mitigation efforts, which can include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage or landscaping for better drainage. —Maia Pandey, jsonline.com, 1 Oct. 2025

Acid leaching, meanwhile, carries the risk of acid mine drainage, where fluids contaminate rivers or groundwater and harm the surrounding ecosystem. —Vanessa Bates Ramirez, Scientific American, 1 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)