How Do You Spell RETENTION BASIN?

Pronunciation: [ɹɪtˈɛnʃən bˈe͡ɪsən] (IPA)

The correct spelling of "retention basin" may seem tricky, but using IPA phonetic transcription can make it more straightforward. The word is pronounced /rɪˈtɛnʃən bæsən/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "retention" part is spelled with a single "t", followed by the letter "e" and then a double "n". The "basin" part is spelled with an "i" followed by a single "s" and then an "i" and an "n". When written and pronounced correctly, "retention basin" refers to an artificial pond designed to collect and store water runoff.

RETENTION BASIN Meaning and Definition

1. A retention basin, also known as a detention basin or a retention pond, is a designed and constructed area used for the temporary storage and controlled release of stormwater runoff or excess water. It is designed to mitigate the impacts of urbanization and prevent flooding in areas with poor drainage.

   Retention basins are typically constructed near developed areas or in urban environments where large amounts of water runoff can occur from impervious surfaces such as roofs, roads, and parking lots. These basins are designed to collect and hold excess water during heavy rain events, allowing it to slowly infiltrate into the ground or be released at a controlled rate into nearby water bodies or storm sewers.

   The design and construction of a retention basin involve excavating a large depression or building an embankment to create a storage area that can hold significant volumes of water. This area is usually lined with impermeable materials to prevent water from seeping into the surrounding soil. In some cases, native vegetation or engineered materials like gravel or filter strips are included to enhance infiltration and remove pollutants from the runoff.

   Retention basins play a vital role in managing stormwater runoff and prevent downstream flooding by storing excess water during heavy rainfall and gradually releasing it downstream. They also serve as effective tools for water quality improvement, allowing pollutants and sediments to settle before the water is discharged. By retaining stormwater, these basins help to reduce erosion, maintain the natural flow characteristics of nearby streams, and protect aquatic ecosystems.

Etymology of RETENTION BASIN

The word "retention basin" is formed by combining two terms: "retention" and "basin".

1. Retention: The word "retention" comes from the Latin word "retentio", which is the noun form of the verb "retinere". "Retinere" consists of two parts: "re", meaning "back" or "again", and "tenere", meaning "to hold". Therefore, "retentio" can be translated as "holding back" or "keeping". Over time, "retention" has evolved to mean the action or process of retaining or keeping something.

2. Basin: The word "basin" has roots in both Old French and Latin. In Old French, it was spelled as "bacin" or "bacine", derived from the Latin word "bacinus", meaning a shallow vessel or dish.