drainage

noun

drain·​age ˈdrā-nij How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Try using mulch to regulate moisture levels and adding organic matter to improve the soil structure, replenish nutrients, and increase drainage. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 18 Sep. 2025 Cottonmouths can be found in aquatic and wetland areas like swamps, marshes, drainage ditches, ponds, lakes and streams. Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 18 Sep. 2025 Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Ca Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 18 Sep. 2025 The ideal sleeping spot should be flat and level, away from the wind and possible falling branches, and out of the line of water drainage paths. Laura Kiniry, Popular Science, 17 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for drainage

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of drainage was in 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Drainage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/drainage. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

drainage

noun
drain·​age ˈdrā-nij How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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 How to pronounce drainage (audio)
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)

More from Merriam-Webster on drainage

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