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Sluice Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sluice

[sluːs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

water control

A sluice is a water channel or passage that is controlled at one or both ends by a gate. This structure is commonly used in dam management, irrigation systems, and in various water-related engineering applications.

Synonyms

channel, drain, gate, valve.

Examples of usage

  • The sluice regulates the flow of water to the fields.
  • They designed a sluice to manage the river's flooding.
  • The irrigation system uses a sluice to direct water efficiently.
Context #2 | Verb

to channel water

To sluice means to wash or pour water over something in order to clean it or to allow it to flow. This verb is often used in contexts involving cleaning or directing water flow effectively.

Synonyms

flush, pour, stream, wash.

Examples of usage

  • They sluiced the gravel to separate the gold.
  • The workers sluiced the area to remove debris.
  • She sluiced the vegetables before cooking.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Engineering

  • Sluices are critical in irrigation systems, helping farmers manage water distribution.
  • In hydroelectric power generation, sluice gates regulate water flow to turbines, influencing energy output.
  • Sluice systems can also play a role in flood control, directing excess water safely away from populated areas.

Environmental Science

  • Sluices help maintain ecosystems by regulating water levels in wetlands, benefiting various species.
  • They can also be used to mitigate sediment buildup in rivers, improving water quality and flow.
  • Sustainability practices involve designing sluices that minimize disruption to local wildlife.

Pop Culture

  • Sluice is also referenced in various literature and films as a metaphor for controlling emotions or situations.
  • In some games, sluice gates are featured as obstacles or tools for players to strategize around, emphasizing problem-solving.
  • The word appears in songs as a symbol of letting go, often depicting the flow of feelings or memories.

Historical Context

  • Sluice systems date back to ancient civilizations like the Romans, who built aqueducts to manage water flow.
  • Historically, sluices were vital in mining, directing water for gold panning and mineral extraction.
  • During the Industrial Revolution, sluices increased in prominence as canals were constructed for transportation and trade.

Origin of 'sluice'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle Dutch 'sluys', meaning 'gate or sluice'.
  • Originally referring to a gate used for controlling water flow, the term expanded in meaning over centuries.
  • The modern usage also refers to a place where a body of water flows through a narrow opening.

The word 'sluice' originates from the Middle English term 'sluice' or 'slyce', which is derived from the Old French 'sluice' meaning 'a water gate', and is linked to the verb 'sliisser', meaning 'to slide'. This connection highlights the action of sliding or allowing water to flow through a controlled outlet. The use of sluices can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when they were integral in managing water flow for agricultural and milling purposes. The concept has evolved over time, but sluices remain vital in various engineering and environmental contexts today, particularly in flood control and water management.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,558, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.