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flume

noun

/flum/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of flume

A man-made channel or duct constructed to control the flow of water.
"The farmer constructed a flume to divert water from the river to irrigate his crops."

Detailed meaning of flume

Typically made of wood, concrete, or metal, a flume is designed to direct the movement of water for various purposes, such as irrigation, drainage, or transportation. Flumes are often found in agricultural settings, where they are used to distribute water to crops or remove excess water from fields. They can also be seen in hydroelectric power plants, where they guide water to turbines to generate electricity. Flumes can range in size from small, narrow channels to large structures that span significant distances. They are engineered with slopes and gradients to ensure a controlled and efficient flow of water. Additionally, flumes may feature structures such as weirs, gates, or spillways to regulate and manage the water's movement.

Example sentences containing flume

1. The water park had an exhilarating flume ride that thrilled visitors.
2. The hiker followed the trail along the natural flume carved by the river.
3. The maintenance crew cleared debris from the flume to ensure smooth water flow.
4. We could hear the rushing water of the flume from a distance.
5. The log rolled down the flume, making a splash as it hit the water.
6. The construction workers built a sturdy flume to divert water away from the construction site.

History and etymology of flume

The noun 'flume' has its origins in Middle English, where it was known as 'flum,' and it referred to a stream or river. It can be traced back to the Old French word 'flum,' which came from the Latin 'flumen,' meaning 'river' or 'stream.' Over time, in English, 'flume' took on a more specific meaning to describe a man-made channel or duct constructed to control the flow of water. The etymology of 'flume' underscores its historical connection to natural waterways, highlighting its role in managing and directing the flow of water, whether for industrial purposes, transportation, or recreation.

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Further usage examples of flume

1. The wooden flume carried water from the reservoir to the nearby fields.
2. The kayakers navigated the twists and turns of the flume with skill.
3. The historical site had a well-preserved flume used for transporting timber in the past.
4. Children enjoyed floating on inflatable tubes down the lazy river flume.
5. The engineer designed a new flume system to regulate water levels in the canal.
6. The heavy rain filled the flume to capacity, causing it to overflow.
7. The water cascaded down the rocky flume, creating a beautiful waterfall.
8. The hydroelectric plant used the flume to channel water into the turbines.
9. The workers repaired a leak in the flume to prevent water wastage.
10. The hiking trail followed the path of an old flume, offering scenic views along the way.
11. The logger guided the logs down the flume with skillful maneuvers.
12. The maintenance team inspected the flume for any signs of damage or erosion.
13. The rafting expedition took us through a thrilling series of flumes and rapids.
14. The natural flume acted as a natural water slide, delighting adventurous swimmers.