down the drain

To draw off (a liquid) by a gradual process: drained water from the sink.

1. To cause liquid to go out from; empty: drained the bathtub; drain the pond.

2. To draw off the surface water of: The Mississippi River drains a vast area.

3. To deplete gradually, especially to the point of complete exhaustion. See Synonyms at deplete.

4. To fatigue or spend emotionally or physically: The day's events completely drained me of all strength.

To drink all the contents of: drained the cup.

1. To deplete gradually, especially to the point of complete exhaustion. See Synonyms at deplete.

2. To fatigue or spend emotionally or physically: The day's events completely drained me of all strength.

To flow off or out: Gasoline drained slowly from the tilted can.

To become empty by the drawing off of liquid: watched the tub slowly drain.

To discharge surface or excess water: The Niagara River drains into Lake Ontario. When flooded, the swamp drains northward.

To become gradually depleted; dwindle: felt his enthusiasm draining.

A pipe or channel by which liquid is drawn off.

Medicine A device, such as a tube, inserted into the opening of a wound or body cavity to facilitate discharge of fluid or purulent material.

The act or process of draining.

1. A gradual outflow or loss; consumption or depletion: the drain of young talent by emigration.

2. Something that causes a gradual loss: interruptions that are a drain on my patience.