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Definition of spillway

spillway

/ˈspɪl.weɪ/
spill · way
Plural:spillways
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spillway Lexical Profile

spillway Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A structure or passage built into a dam or levee to provide the controlled release of excess water into a downstream area, preventing water from overflowing and damaging the dam.

Example

"Heavy spring rains raised the reservoir to capacity, forcing engineers to open the main spillway to relieve pressure on the dam."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for spillway

• Nearby Words

spillage
spiller
spillover
spillway
spin
spinach
spinal

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Spillway. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/spillway
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