Definition

Noun A drainage system is a network of natural or artificial channels, pipes, and structures designed to collect and remove excess water, such as rainwater or wastewater, from an area to prevent flooding and waterlogging.

Usage

The term "drainage system" is used to describe the infrastructure for water removal. It can refer to large-scale municipal engineering or smaller-scale systems for buildings and land. * The city's drainage system was overwhelmed by the heavy monsoon rains. * Before construction begins, engineers must design an effective drainage system for the site. * A clogged drainage system in the backyard can cause the lawn to become soggy.

Advanced Usage

• "Integrated drainage system": A system that combines the management of stormwater and sewage, often with considerations for environmental sustainability.
  • The new urban development features an integrated drainage system that filters runoff before it enters the river.
• "Natural drainage system": Refers to the pre-existing landscape features, like streams and soil permeability, that manage water flow before human modification.
  • Building over wetlands can disrupt the natural drainage system, leading to increased flood risk downstream.

Variants and Related Words

• Drainage (n): The general action or process of draining water or the area drained.
  • The field has poor drainage, so it stays muddy for days.
• Drain (n): A single pipe or channel that carries away liquid waste or water.
  • Please don't pour grease down the kitchen drain.
• Sewer system (n): A specific type of drainage system, typically underground, for carrying away sewage and wastewater from buildings to a treatment plant. (Note: Not all drainage systems are sewer systems, as some only handle stormwater).

Synonyms

• Sewerage (when specifically referring to wastewater removal).
• Stormwater system (when specifically designed for rainwater runoff).

Related Phrases

• "To improve the drainage": To enhance the ability of an area or system to remove water.
  • They installed French drains to improve the drainage around the house foundation.
• "Drainage basin" or "Watershed" (n): The geographical area of land where all precipitation collects and drains off into a common outlet, such as a river. This is the natural counterpart to a constructed drainage system.
  • Protecting forests in the drainage basin is crucial for maintaining clean water supplies.

Noun

1. a system of watercourses or drains for carrying off excess water