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drain

Elementary (A2)

IPA: /dreɪn/

KK: /dren/

intransitive verb
Definition

To become empty or to lose liquid gradually; to flow out or off.


Example

The water will drain from the sink after I pull the plug.


Tense Forms

Past: drained

Past Participle: drained


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you notice how quickly the water drains from the bathtub?
Sloth B
Yeah, it’s almost like it has a turbo setting!
Sloth A
I wonder if it’s because of the new pipes we installed.
Sloth B
That could be it! Good thing we finally got that fixed.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
empty
deplete
flow
Antonyms
fill
increase
accumulate
noun
Definition

A pipe or channel that allows liquid to flow away, or a gradual loss of something, like energy or resources.


Example

The rainwater flows through the drain into the sewer system.


Conversation
Sloth A
I feel like my energy is a total drain after this week.
Sloth B
I know what you mean; work has been exhausting lately.
Sloth A
Yeah, it's like there are too many tasks that just suck the life out of me.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To remove liquid from something, making it empty or less full.


Example

She decided to drain the water from the pool before cleaning it.


Tense Forms

Past: drained

Past Participle: drained


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried to drain a bathtub by yourself?
Sloth B
Yeah, I did that last week and it was a bit tricky.
Sloth A
I can imagine! I always forget to drain the water before cleaning it.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Drain → It originates from Old French *drainer*, meaning to draw off water or liquid. The word describes the action of removing liquid from a space.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word 'drainer' which means to draw off water — this helps you remember that 'drain' means to remove liquid.

Visually Confused Words
durain
rain
dain
drawing
detrain
deraign
degrain
train
Is this page helpful?
Maybe we should take a break and recharge this weekend!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
outflow
loss
depletion
Antonyms
gain
influx
surplus
Same here! It’s such a hassle when it gets all messy.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
empty
deplete
exhaust
Antonyms
fill
supply
refill