Drain Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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drain

[dreษชn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

kitchen

A pipe or channel designed to carry away liquid waste or excess water.

Synonyms

channel, pipe, sewer.

Examples of usage

  • The sink drain was clogged and needed to be cleared.
  • She poured the pasta water down the drain.
Context #2 | Verb

energy

Cause the water or other liquid in (something) to run out, leaving it empty, dry, or drier.

Synonyms

deplete, empty, exhaust.

Examples of usage

  • She had to drain the swimming pool before winter.
  • He drained the oil from the car engine.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Environmental Science

  • Drains are essential for preventing flooding in urban areas by directing excess water away.
  • Poorly managed drainage systems can lead to water pollution as runoff collects debris and chemicals.
  • Green drainage solutions, like rain gardens, help filter water naturally before it enters drains.

Psychology

  • The concept of 'emotional drain' refers to feeling exhausted by negative situations or people.
  • People often experience mental drain after prolonged periods of stress or multitasking.
  • Research suggests that spending time in nature can help alleviate mental drain caused by urban living.

Technology

  • In engineering, drains are designed as part of systems to manage water flow in buildings and landscapes.
  • Advancements in technology have led to smart drain systems that can monitor and manage water levels electronically.
  • Drainage data analysis can help cities predict and respond to flooding events more effectively.

Architecture

  • Effective drainage design is crucial in architecture to protect buildings from water damage.
  • Historically, early civilizations created complex drainage systems to manage water and safeguard their infrastructure.
  • Drainage in landscaping helps maintain aesthetic appeal while preventing erosion and water accumulation.

Origin of 'drain'

Main points about word origin

  • This term comes from the Old French word 'dreiner', which means to draw off water.
  • The word has roots in the Latin 'drainare', based on 'drain', which means to flow down.
  • Historically, it relates to practices of managing water in agriculture and urban areas.

The word 'drain' originated from the Old English 'drฤ“ahnian', meaning 'to strain'. It has evolved over time to refer to the act of removing liquid from a place or object. The concept of drainage has been essential in human civilization for centuries, aiding in sanitation, agriculture, and infrastructure development.


See also: drainage, drained, drainer, draining.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,194 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.