The word Drain (Verb) refers to removing liquid or energy from something, often leaving it empty, depleted, or less functional. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use Drain correctly in sentences.
Drain Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Drain including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, and antonyms.
Meanings of Drain
Drain means to gradually remove or use up a resource such as energy, strength, money, or a liquid—leaving the source weakened or empty. It can refer to both physical and non-physical depletion. For example, draining water from a sink or draining someone’s energy through stress or overwork.
Definition
Drain is a versatile verb that means to cause something to lose contents, energy, or resources, either suddenly or over time. Physically, it often describes the act of removing liquid from a container or surface (e.g., “drain the bathtub”). Metaphorically, it is widely used to describe emotional or mental exhaustion (e.g., “This job drains me”). It may also refer to financial burdens (e.g., “The project drained the company’s budget”).
Drain can imply either a passive or active process and often involves a significant or complete reduction in capacity, function, or emotion. In engineering or environmental contexts, it may refer to redirecting water or other fluids through a channel or outlet.
Etymology
The word drain originates from Middle English dreyne, derived from Old English drēahnian or drēahn, meaning “to draw off liquid.” It is closely related to the Old Norse drekkja (to drown) and Germanic roots connected to drying and removal. The word has evolved in English to describe both literal and figurative acts of removal or depletion.
Over time, its metaphorical use became common in describing emotional fatigue, resource loss, or exhaustion of energy. The evolution from liquid-focused contexts to emotional, financial, and even digital contexts reflects the word’s flexibility in modern usage.
Example Sentences
- The long hike completely drained my energy.
- Please drain the pasta before serving.
- Constant meetings and deadlines drain employee morale.
Drain Synonyms
- Empty
- Exhaust
- Deplete
- Weaken
- Diminish
- Remove
- Bleed
- Use up
- Lower
- Evacuate
Drain Antonyms
- Fill
- Refill
- Recharge
- Restore
- Replenish
- Strengthen
- Power
- Fuel
- Invigorate
- Boost
FAQs about Drain
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Drain”
1. What does “drain” mean?
It means to remove liquid, energy, or resources from something, often leaving it depleted or weakened.
2. Can “drain” be used in emotional contexts?
Yes, it’s often used to describe mental or emotional exhaustion, such as “dealing with stress can drain you.”
3. Is “drain” only negative?
Generally, yes—it usually implies loss or depletion. However, in practical tasks like draining pasta, it’s neutral.
4. How is “drain” used in finance or business?
It can describe financial loss or resource overuse, like “The investment drained the company’s savings.”
5. What’s the difference between “drain” and “exhaust”?
“Drain” often implies gradual loss, while “exhaust” suggests total depletion more suddenly or completely.