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

Zampirri says the city declared an emergency about three weeks ago after a series of winter storms stripped away several feet of sand, which threatened the storm drainage system that runs along the dunes. —Ryan Hughes, CBS News, 1 Apr. 2026

Look for containers with good drainage and select a potting mix that promotes drainage. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 1 Apr. 2026

The city of Leawood is looking to repair pipes and stormwater systems in an area that’s been plagued with flooding and water drainage issues during heavy rainstorms. —Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 1 Apr. 2026

Your site needs 6–8 hours of sunlight daily, protection from strong winds, proper drainage and level ground. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 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)