downspout

noun

down·​spout ˈdau̇n-ˌspau̇t How to pronounce downspout (audio)
: a vertical pipe used to drain rainwater from a roof

Examples of downspout in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Fix Drainage Issues Redirect a downspout that causes water to pool in an area of your yard. — Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 23 Aug. 2026 Ensure your existing gutters are firmly secured, leak-free and properly sloped toward downspouts before mounting guards (a professional will do this as part of their initial assessment, too). — Nick Perry, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026 Leaves, twigs, and other seasonal debris can clog gutters and downspouts, preventing rain and melting snow from draining properly. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 3 Aug. 2026 Clear your gutters and downspouts to help heavy rain flow away from your home instead of causing water intrusion. — Jamie Gold, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for downspout

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of downspout was in 1850

Rhymes for downspout

See All Rhymes for downspout

Browse Nearby Words

down south
downspout
downstage
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Downspout.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/downspout. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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