Floodgate
Pronunciation: /ˈflʌdˌɡeɪt/
Floodgate (noun)
- A gate in a dam or wall that controls water flow, opening or closing to prevent flooding.
- Something that, once allowed, causes a large amount of activity or problems to start quickly.
Examples
- The floodgate holds back river water during heavy rain.
- A floodgate can protect low areas from rising water.