Washout Meaning in English
word
Definition
A 'washout' can mean a total failure (such as an event ruined by weather) or something washed away by water, like a road or bridge destroyed in a flood.
Usage & Nuances
Informal; often used for events ruined by bad weather ('the picnic was a washout'), or any total disappointment. Can also literally describe physical damage from water. Common in UK, less so in US for the 'failure' meaning. Not to confuse with 'wash out' (phrasal verb).
Example Sentences
The school picnic was a washout because it rained all day.
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The flood caused a washout on the main road.
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The concert turned into a washout because of the storm.
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Our camping trip was a total washout—we spent the whole time hiding from the rain.
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Last night's match was a washout; not a single goal was scored, and the field was a mess.
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Due to the washout, the train couldn’t reach the next station, and all passengers had to wait for hours.
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