leakage

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal

n. the accidental sharing of secret or private information.

n. the unauthorised or accidental disclosure of confidential data or sensitive information.

“The company investigated the leakage of private customer data to the press.”

“The government launched an internal inquiry to determine how the leakage of classified documents had occurred despite strict digital protocols.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Economics Academic · Technical

n. the loss of money from an economy, often because it is spent in other countries.

n. the diversion of income from a circular flow, such as when tourism revenue is spent on imported goods rather than local services.

“The island's economy suffered from leakage because most hotels were owned by foreign companies.”

“Economists argue that reducing leakage is essential for developing nations to ensure that tourism profits actually benefit the local population.”

C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Science Technical

n. the flow of electricity where it is not supposed to go.

n. the gradual loss of electrical energy through insulation or across a dielectric.

“The old battery failed because of internal electrical leakage over time.”

“The technician used a multimeter to detect any current leakage that might be compromising the safety of the high-voltage circuit.”