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

Governments can then make decisions based on the resulting risk maps, such as prioritising patrols and fire bans in high-risk areas, and blocking drainage canals to rewet peatlands and raise groundwater levels before a fire starts. — Karryl Kim Sagun Trajano, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2026

This question has become more urgent since the flash floods in the Hill Country in July 2026, which brought up new worries about drainage, emergency access, and building in an area that faces both drought and sudden storms. — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026

So, incorporate compost or manure to both improve drainage and boost nutrient levels. — Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 31 July 2026

Here are seven of the simplest ways to ramp up your lymphatic drainage. — Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 30 July 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)