drainage

noun

drain·​age ˈdrā-nij How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At this week’s meeting, Escobedo presented additional information, including schematics showing how the new house compares with the old one, how drainage and water issues would be handled, a landscape plan and additional external renderings. Ashley MacKin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 Aug. 2025 The park’s layout has led to drainage issues and compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act has posed a challenge, Hassett said. Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 18 Aug. 2025 Artificial grass also can become extremely hot, doesn’t have the best drainage and isn’t easy to recycle. Ashley Miznazi, Sun Sentinel, 14 Aug. 2025 If the soil is dry, water thoroughly, ensuring the pot’s drainage holes are in working order. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drainage

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drainage was in 1652

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Drainage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drainage. Accessed 1 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

drainage

noun
drain·​age ˈdrā-nij How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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 How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on drainage

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