noun
drain
drayn
noun
1
A pipe or channel that carries away unwanted liquid.
"Leaves clogged the drain outside the house."
2
Something that steadily consumes resources without giving anything back.
"The failing project became a drain on the company's budget."
verb
1
To cause liquid to flow away, or for liquid to flow away, from something.
"Drain the pasta before adding the sauce."
"Water drained slowly from the flooded field."
2
To gradually use up someone's energy, money, or resources.
"The long commute drains her energy every day."
How to Use Drain
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo let liquid flow away, or to slowly use up energy or money.
Common pairings
drain the pool
drain of energy
a drain on resources
down the drain
Word Forms
drained past tense, drains plural, Drains plural, drains singular
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Leaves clogged the _____ outside the house.
Etymology
From Old English dreahnian, related to Old English drygan, "to dry."