Meaning of drain in English

1. Pronunciation

   /dreɪn/

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   UK accent

   How to pronounce drain in British English, in context ▾
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1. Verb

   drain

   Etymology

   Old English drēahnian, drēhnian ‘strain (liquid’), of Germanic origin; related to dry

   Definitions

   1. flow off gradually

   Examples

   • « The rain water drains into this big vat »
2. 2. deplete of resources

   Examples

   • « The exercise class drains me of energy »
3. 3. empty of liquid

   Examples

   • « drain the liquid from »
   • « We drained the oil tank »
4. 4. make weak

   Examples

   • « Life in the camp drained him »

5. Noun

   drain

   Definitions

   1. emptying accomplished by draining
6. 2. tube inserted into a body cavity (as during surgery) to remove unwanted material
7. 3. a pipe through which liquid is carried away
8. 4. a gradual depletion of energy or resources

   Examples

   • « a drain on resources »
   • « a drain of young talent by emmigration »