drain
n. countablen. a pipe or hole that carries away waste water. You can also use it to describe something that uses up all your time, money, or energy.
n. a channel or pipe designed to carry off surplus liquid or waste; figuratively, a person or thing that causes a continuous depletion of resources.
The kitchen drain is blocked with food.
Repairing the old car became a constant drain on his savings until he finally decided to sell it.
The rapid expansion of the tech sector has caused a significant brain drain, as highly skilled researchers leave academia for more lucrative positions in private industry.
Often used in the singular with 'on' when describing a depletion of resources.
- 01
brain drain
The migration of educated or talented people from less economically advanced areas to more economically advanced areas, especially to large cities or more developed nations.
- 02
circle the drain
To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.
- 03
drain the python
To urinate.