floodgate
UK: ˈflʌdɡeɪt | US: ˈflʌdɡeɪt
n. a gate used to control the flow of water in a river or canal
n. (figurative) something that restrains or controls the release of a large quantity (e.g., information, emotions)
The word "floodgate" combines "flood" (from Old English flōd, meaning "a flowing of water") and "gate" (from Old English gatu, meaning "opening or barrier"). Historically, floodgates were literal gates built to regulate water flow in rivers or canals, preventing floods. Over time, the term evolved metaphorically to describe mechanisms that control the release of anything abundant (e.g., "opening the floodgates of criticism"). The logic is straightforward: just as a physical gate holds back water, a figurative floodgate restrains overwhelming forces.
The engineers opened the floodgate to relieve pressure on the dam.
The new policy lifted restrictions, acting as a floodgate for innovation.
Her confession broke the floodgate of emotions she had suppressed for years.
The leak in the report opened the floodgates to public scrutiny.
Ancient civilizations used floodgates to manage irrigation systems.