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Floodwater

UK //ˈflʌdˌwɔːtə//US //ˈflʌdˌwɔtər//

Definition

Water that overflows onto land due to heavy rain or a flood.

In simple words: Water that covers land after heavy rain or flooding.

Examples

  • The floodwater rose quickly and trapped many residents in their homes.
  • After the storm, the floodwater caused significant damage to the roads.
  • The floodwater receded slowly, revealing muddy landscapes.
  • Damage assessments were conducted to evaluate the effects of floodwater.
  • Authorities warned citizens to avoid areas with standing floodwater.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about weather, natural disasters, and environmental issues. Appropriate in both casual and formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a flood with water everywhere – 'floodwater' is just that.

Collocations

  • rising floodwater
  • stagnant floodwater
  • floodwater levels
  • contaminated floodwater
  • drain floodwater

Synonyms

  • inundation
  • deluge
  • overflow
  • submersion
  • flooding

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'flood' as a verb.
  • Using 'floodwater' to describe any water.
  • Incorrectly pluralizing 'floodwaters'.