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spillway

noun

/ˈspɪlˌweɪ

IPA:

Dictionary definition of spillway

A structure or channel designed to divert or control the flow of water from a reservoir, dam, or other water containment system.
"The spillway diverted the rushing water away from the dam, preventing a potential disaster."

Detailed meaning of spillway

It serves as an outlet to release excess water when the reservoir or dam reaches its capacity, preventing overflow and potential damage. A spillway is typically engineered to ensure a controlled and regulated release of water, avoiding uncontrolled flooding or structural failure. It is often constructed with specific features, such as gates, barriers, or channels, to manage the flow of water and direct it safely away from the dam or reservoir. Spillways play a vital role in maintaining the integrity and safety of water containment systems, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or excessive inflow. They provide a controlled release mechanism to protect the surrounding areas and prevent catastrophic events caused by excessive water pressure.

Example sentences containing spillway

1. The engineers inspected the spillway to ensure its structural integrity before the rainy season.
2. The heavy rainfall caused the spillway to release a powerful cascade of water.
3. The reservoir's spillway was designed to handle large volumes of water during periods of flooding.
4. The dam operator opened the spillway gates to regulate the water level downstream.
5. The emergency response team monitored the spillway closely during the storm to prevent overflow.
6. The hikers stood on the spillway, marveling at the force and beauty of the cascading water.

History and etymology of spillway

The noun 'spillway' is a compound word formed from two distinct components. The first part, 'spill,' comes from the Old English word 'spillan,' meaning to cause to flow out or shed. The second part, 'way,' is self-explanatory, referring to a path or route. In the context of water management and engineering, 'spillway' was coined to describe a structure or channel specifically designed to divert or control the flow of water from a reservoir, dam, or other water containment system. Essentially, a 'spillway' serves as a controlled pathway for excess water to flow out of a reservoir to prevent overtopping or damage to the dam, ensuring the safe release of water in the event of high water levels. The term 'spillway' encapsulates the purpose and function of this vital hydraulic engineering feature.

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Further usage examples of spillway

1. The spillway discharge created a roaring waterfall that attracted visitors from far and wide.
2. The city invested in improving the spillway infrastructure to enhance flood control measures.
3. The spillway's concrete walls were reinforced to withstand the immense pressure of water.
4. The wildlife sanctuary downstream benefited from the regulated water release from the spillway.
5. The engineers conducted routine maintenance on the spillway to ensure its operational efficiency.
6. The engineers inspected the spillway's integrity after heavy rainfall.
7. The reservoir's spillway was wide enough to handle excess runoff.
8. They opened the spillway gates to release water downstream.
9. The spillway's concrete surface showed signs of erosion over time.
10. A sudden downpour put the dam's spillway to the test.
11. A maintenance crew worked tirelessly to clear debris from the spillway.
12. The dam's spillway design prevented catastrophic flooding.
13. An emergency plan included activating the spillway during a flood.
14. The spillway's capacity was increased to mitigate flood risks.
15. Engineers monitored the spillway's water flow with precision instruments.
16. The reservoir's spillway had never been used in the dam's history.
17. Heavy rainfall necessitated the controlled release of water through the spillway.
18. A flock of ducks swam near the serene spillway entrance.
19. The spillway's gates remained closed during the dry season.
20. A drone captured aerial footage of the spillway's operation.
21. The spillway's structure included intricate control mechanisms.
22. Wildlife thrived in the lush vegetation surrounding the spillway.
23. Engineers designed the spillway to withstand extreme weather events.
24. The spillway's purpose was to prevent dam overtopping.
25. Authorities conducted annual inspections to ensure spillway functionality.