ClimateAugust 23, 2026

sump

SUMP

Definition

A pit or hollow at the lowest point of a space, such as a basement, designed to collect and drain away excess water.

Etymology

Originating from Middle Low German or Middle Dutch, the word is related to 'sump' meaning a swamp or marsh. It evolved to describe a low-lying cavity or reservoir used to hold unwanted liquids.

In the news

The article mentions a sump pump as part of flood prevention efforts that residents are installing to protect their basements from future water damage.

Threat of flooding looms over Niagara as heavy rain forecast

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