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

Equip yourself with these guidelines from the NWS to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards: Beware of swollen waterways: Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away. —Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 7 June 2025

Follow these recommendations from the NWS to stay safe in heavy rain: Beware of swollen waterways: Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away. —Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 6 June 2025

Neighbors were worried about traffic, drainage and plans to change the lot sizes from 36,000 square feet to 25,000 square feet. —Fousia Abdullahi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 June 2025

If you’re lost and have no way to get help, following a drainage or stream downhill can be used as a last resort, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service. —Shaun Goodwin, Idaho Statesman, 3 June 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)