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

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk. —Bay Area Weather Report, Mercury News, 18 Feb. 2026

Roads, sidewalks, drainage systems and neighborhood trees are maintained. —Lisa Mallozzi, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 Feb. 2026

Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. —Southern California Weather Report, Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026

During heavy rain, avoid playing near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk. —Southern California Weather Report, Oc Register, 18 Feb. 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)