runoff
Pronunciation
Noun
B1 Intermediate
Quick answer
Water, often from rain or melted snow, that flows over the surface of the land into rivers, lakes, or drains, sometimes carrying pollutants with it.
Usage notes
"Runoff" can also refer to an additional election held when no candidate wins a clear majority, an unrelated sense.
Test yourself
Which word fits the gap? "Farm _____ carried fertilizer into the nearby stream, harming local fish populations."
Answer: runoff
In your own words, what does "runoff" mean?
Water, often from rain or melted snow, that flows over the surface of the land into rivers, lakes, or drains, sometimes carrying pollutants with it.
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