flume

noun

ˈflüm 

1

: an inclined channel for conveying water (as for power)

2

: a ravine or gorge with a stream running through it

Synonyms

• canyon
• cañon
• col
• couloir
• defile
• gap
• gill [British]
• gorge
• gulch
• gulf
• kloof [South African]
• linn [chiefly Scottish]
• notch
• pass
• ravine
• saddle

Examples of flume in a Sentence

hiked through the flume and into the meadow beyond it

built a flume next to the road for runoff

Recent Examples on the Web

The study shows data from 24 subjects who completed a 15-minute incremental swim test in a flume (the swimming equivalent of a treadmill, where the speed of the water can be adjusted). —Alex Hutchinson, Outside Online, 25 Nov. 2024

Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is a log flume ride based on Disney’s 2009 film The Princess and the Frog. —Brady MacDonald, Orange County Register, 1 Nov. 2024

With a narrower flume, the action takes place closer to you. —Robert Niles, Orange County Register, 19 Nov. 2024

All About Tiana's Bayou Adventure, Disney’s Upcoming Princess and The Frog Ride The basic components of the flume ride remain, including its famous 50-foot drop. —Staff Author, Peoplemag, 12 June 2024

Word History

Etymology

probably from Middle English flum river, from Anglo-French, from Latin flumen, from fluere — more at fluid

First Known Use

1748, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

flume

noun

ˈflüm 

1

: a sloping channel for carrying water (as for power)

2

: a ravine or gorge with a stream running through it