WorldAugust 25, 2026

spillway

SPIL-way

Definition

A passage or structure designed to allow water to flow out of or past a dam or other barrier in a controlled manner.

Etymology

Derived from the Middle English 'spillen' (meaning to waste or shed) combined with 'way' (a path or route), originally referring to a way for surplus water to spill out.

In the news

In this article, the term refers to the concrete structure being built as part of the South Boulder Creek flood mitigation project to safely divert overflow water.

Court of Appeals sides with Boulder in flood mitigation lawsuit

Read the full article ↗

Daily Camera

Related words

effectuating

The act of putting a plan, order, or policy into operation or reality.

World

proffer

A formal statement or document presented to a court that outlines the evidence the…

World

reconnaissance

The act of gathering information or observation, typically of a target or area, often for…

World

adjudicate

To make a formal legal decision or judgment on a disputed matter, claim, or petition.

World

enjoining

Prohibiting or restraining someone from performing a specific action, typically through a…

World

abdication

The formal act of resigning or renouncing a throne, high office, or sovereign power.

World

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.