The phrase "drains away" is spelled with the phonemes /dreɪnz əˈweɪ/. The first sound is the "d" sound, followed by the "r" sound. After that is "ai," which is a diphthong made up of the "ɑ" and "ɪ" sounds. Then comes "n" and "z," followed by the schwa sound in the unstressed syllable "ə." Finally, we have the "w" sound and the long "ɛ" vowel sound in "way." Altogether, the spelling and pronunciation of "drains away" are straightforward and easy to remember.
The phrasal verb "drains away" refers to the act or process of slowly and gradually emptying or removing liquid or substance from a particular area or object. It implies the continuous movement or flow of a substance, usually a liquid, away from a specific location, resulting in its decrease or disappearance.
Taking a more literal perspective, "drains away" can be understood in terms of physical draining systems. In this sense, it entails the usage of pipes or channels to divert or eliminate waste liquid, such as water or sewage, from a location or object. For instance, after a heavy rainfall, the excess water drains away from the roads through the drainage system, preventing flooding.
Metaphorically, "drains away" can also refer to the dissipation or gradual loss of something less tangible. It can describe the process of losing energy, enthusiasm, or motivation, as if it is seeping slowly out of a person or situation. For example, after working tirelessly for several days, one's energy may drain away, resulting in fatigue and a decrease in productivity.
In summary, "drains away" signifies an ongoing, gradual removal or reduction of liquid or substance from a specific area or object. Whether in a physical or metaphorical sense, it emphasizes the continuous movement or flow that results in a steady decrease or disappearance of the substance or attribute in question.
The word "drains away" consists of two parts: "drains" and "away".
1. Drains:
- The word "drains" is derived from the Old Northern French word "drener" which means "to channel water".
- This Old Northern French word "drener" is derived from the Latin word "derinare" which means "to drain" or "to draw off water".
2. Away:
- The word "away" is derived from the Old English word "onweg" which means "onward" or "from a place".
- This Old English word "onweg" is a combination of the words "on" meaning "on" or "in", and "weg" meaning "way" or "road".