Word
spillway
Phoneticsspill·way, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈspɪɫˌweɪ/
UK/spˈɪlweɪ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a channel or opening in a dam that lets extra water flow out safely. It prevents the dam from breaking by controlling the water level.
n. a channel or opening in a dam or levee designed to carry off surplus water. It serves as a safety mechanism to prevent structural failure during periods of high flow.
Examples
“The spillway released a large amount of water after the heavy rain.”
“Engineers monitored the lake level closely to ensure the spillway would handle the expected spring melt.”
“The primary spillway was designed to handle a one-in-a-century flood, though secondary channels were also constructed to provide additional capacity during extreme weather events.”
Examples
simple
“The spillway released a large amount of water after the heavy rain.”
contextual
“Engineers monitored the lake level closely to ensure the spillway would handle the expected spring melt.”
complex
“The primary spillway was designed to handle a one-in-a-century flood, though secondary channels were also constructed to provide additional capacity during extreme weather events.”
Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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