Background for sumps

sumps

/sʌmps/

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

A hollow or pit into which liquid drains, such as a cesspool, cesspit or sink.

Examples :

"The garage mechanic cleaned the sumps under the cars to remove the old oil and grime. "

utility architecture environment

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

The lowest part of a mineshaft into which water drains.

Examples :

"The mine workers regularly pumped water out of the sumps to prevent flooding in the lower levels. "

geology structure environment place industry technical

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

A completely flooded cave passage, sometimes passable by diving.

Examples :

"The cave system was extensive, but further exploration was halted by several sumps that required scuba gear to navigate. "

geology geography environment nature place science

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

The crankcase or oil reservoir of an internal combustion engine.

Examples :

"The mechanic checked the oil levels in the car's sumps to ensure the engine was properly lubricated. "

vehicle machine part technical

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

The pit at the lowest point in a circulating or drainage system (FM 55-501).

Examples :

"The mechanic checked the sumps in the garage floor to make sure they weren't overflowing with used oil. "

system part structure machine technical utility

Illustration sumps - Image 1

noun

An intentional depression around a drain or scupper that promotes drainage.

Examples :

"The parking lot had several sumps near the drains to prevent flooding during heavy rain. "

architecture utility technical building structure environment

Illustration sumps - Image 1

verb

Of a cave passage, to end in a sump, or to fill completely with water on occasion.

Examples :

"This low passage sumps quickly after moderate rainfall."

geology environment geography