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Seepage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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seepage

[หˆsiหpษชdส’ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

water

The slow escape of water through small openings or pores in the ground or a structure.

Synonyms

leakage, ooze, percolation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
seepage

Seepage is commonly used to describe the slow movement of a liquid through porous material, such as soil or a wall. It is often associated with water or other liquids slowly escaping from a barrier.

  • After the heavy rains, there was noticeable seepage in the basement walls
leakage

Leakage is used to describe the unintentional escape of a liquid or gas from a container or system. It can indicate damage or a fault and is generally undesirable.

  • The plumber fixed the pipe to stop the water leakage from flooding the kitchen
ooze

Ooze refers to the slow, viscous flow of a thick fluid, often in a way that suggests it is being squeezed out. It can be used for both natural and man-made situations, sometimes carrying a slightly negative connotation.

  • The wound began to ooze blood, requiring immediate medical attention
percolation

Percolation describes the process by which a liquid slowly passes through a filter or porous substance. It is often used in scientific or technical contexts.

  • The soilโ€™s high rate of percolation helps prevent waterlogging and promotes healthy plant growth

Examples of usage

  • The basement had seepage after heavy rain.
  • The seepage of water through the dam caused concern for its stability.
Context #2 | Noun

information

The gradual leaking or spreading of information, knowledge, or influence.

Synonyms

leakage, percolation, spread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
seepage

Used to describe the slow escape of a liquid or gas through small holes or porous material, often seen with natural processes or subtle leaks.

  • The seepage from the underground tank contaminated the soil.
  • We noticed the seepage of water through the basement walls.
leakage

Refers to the unintended or accidental escape of liquid or gas, usually due to a fault or failure in a container or system. It often has a negative connotation.

  • The company had to recall its product due to leakage issues.
  • There was a water leakage in the pipe that caused damage to the ceiling.
spread

Refers to the gradual extension or diffusion of a substance or influence over an area or among a group, can be used for both liquids and abstract concepts.

  • The spread of the oil spill affected a large area of the coastline.
  • The spread of misinformation on social media is a serious concern.
percolation

Describes the process of a liquid slowly passing through a filter or porous surface, commonly used in the context of soil or coffee making.

  • The percolation of rainwater through the soil is essential for groundwater recharge.
  • He waited for the percolation of coffee before serving it.

Examples of usage

  • The seepage of rumors about the company's financial troubles affected its stock price.
  • There was seepage of confidential information from the government agency.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Seepage is crucial in hydrogeology, as it affects how water moves through soil and rocks.
  • In environmental science, seepage can lead to contamination if pollutants are carried by the water.
  • Soil permeability defines how quickly water seeps into the ground, impacting agriculture and construction.

Practical Applications

  • Builders must consider seepage when constructing foundations to prevent water damage.
  • In irrigation systems, managing seepage ensures efficient water use for farming.
  • Environmental monitoring often involves measuring seepage to assess groundwater quality.

Literature

  • Writers use seepage metaphorically to describe emotions or ideas that slowly permeate one's consciousness.
  • In poetry, seepage can symbolize the gradual influence of time on memory or relationships.
  • Novels may illustrate characters affected by seepage as a theme of hidden truths emerging over time.

Cultural References

  • In art, seepage symbolizes the vulnerability of structures, often seen in installations that represent decay.
  • The concept appears in environmental documentaries highlighting the impacts of pollution and climate change.
  • Seepage is used in various idioms and expressions, indicating how feelings can 'seep' into day-to-day life.

Origin of 'seepage'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'seep' comes from the Old English 'sฤ“pan', which means to drain or flow.
  • The suffix '-age' denotes a collection or an act, making 'seepage' refer to the act of flowing or leaking.
  • The term has been in use since the 19th century in contexts related to geology and hydrology.

The word 'seepage' originated from the Middle English word 'sipage', meaning 'to ooze'. It has been used since the 15th century to describe the slow escape or leaking of fluids. Over time, the term has evolved to include not just water seepage, but also the gradual spreading of information or influence.

See also: seep, seeping.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,867, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.