C1verb1K

Drain

UK /["/dreɪn/","/dreɪnz/","/dreɪnd/","/ˈdreɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/dreɪn/","/dreɪnz/","/dreɪnd/","/ˈdreɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to make something empty or dry by removing the liquid from it; to become empty or dry in this way

In simple words: To remove liquid or to take away energy.

Examples

  • Please drain the pasta before serving it.
  • The heavy rain caused the field to drain slowly.
  • The long meeting drained her energy completely.
  • They need to drain the swimming pool for maintenance.
  • The battery drains quickly when using the GPS feature.

Usage notes

Use 'drain' when talking about removing liquid from something, like a sink. It's also used metaphorically to express exhaustion or loss of energy. Avoid in highly formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

drain + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'drain' as a 'funnel' for energy or liquid disappearing.

Collocations

  • thoroughly
  • well
  • poorly
  • out of
  • thoroughly
  • well
  • poorly
  • out of
  • completely
  • totally
  • utterly
  • of
  • out of
  • be drained
  • feel drained

Synonyms

  • empty
  • deplete
  • remove
  • exhaust
  • let out

Antonyms

  • fill
  • flow

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'rain' when spoken.
  • Using as a noun without clarification, e.g. 'the drain' without context.
  • Mixing up with 'drain away' which emphasizes gradual removal.