floodgate

[ UK /flˈʌdɡe‍ɪt/ ]
[ US /ˈfɫədˌɡeɪt/ ]

NOUN

something that restrains a flood or outpouring
suspension of surveillance opened the floodgates to illegal immigrants
regulator consisting of a valve or gate that controls the rate of water flow through a sluice

Top Definitions Examples

How To Use floodgate In A Sentence

The work will involve the construction of maximum strength earth embankments and masonry walls along the Derwent, as well as the installation of floodgates, penstocks and flood valves.
A decision against the cigarette companies could open the floodgates to many more lawsuits.
His success is expected to open the floodgates for American cycling, as Armstrong's feats can now command the front pages of most American papers and magazines.
But how could the floodgates of remembrance not open for him today? OUT OF THE ASHES
The only thing different about Obama from Hillary is that he's African-American and that has opened the racial floodgates to hector, harass, and demean him. Earl Ofari Hutchinson: Knock Off the 'Run Hillary Run' Chatter
They are cocking a snook at the council and just open the floodgates for similar situations.
`Now, if the floodgates are shut, let's do a couple of hours "work then I'll take you out to drink strong beer. TIME OF THE WOLF
It would open the floodgates for highways obstructions.
His victory could open the floodgates for other claims.
It is not intended to open the floodgates to petty claims against those bodies, nor will it lead to large compensation payouts.

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