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

In addition to preventing soil compaction, raised beds can help with drainage, prevent weeds and serve as a barrier to pests. —Malaka Gharib, NPR, 14 Mar. 2025

Flooding may also occur in poor drainage and urban areas. —Raja Krishnamoorthi, Newsweek, 13 Mar. 2025

In Toronto, where the concept is being proposed, 90% of the school parking lots are in need of repair due to more than 40-year-old asphalt that is cracking, and that has poor drainage. —Jennifer Castenson, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office said in a statement Tuesday that Cassell was found by Johnny Martinez, a passerby who was operating drainage equipment in the area. —Karina Tsui, CNN, 12 Mar. 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)