inflow
UK: ˈɪnfləʊ | US: ˈɪnfloʊ
n. the movement of something (e.g., money, people, or resources) into a place or system
n. the amount of something that enters a place or system
The word "inflow" combines the prefix "in-" (from Old English "in," meaning "into") with the root "flow" (from Old English "flōwan," meaning "to move like a liquid or gas"). The term emerged in Middle English to describe the directional movement of substances or abstract quantities (e.g., capital) into a system. Its logic mirrors physical hydraulics—reflecting how languages often borrow concrete concepts to describe abstract processes.
The inflow of foreign investment boosted the country’s economy.
The dam regulates the inflow of water into the reservoir.
A sudden inflow of tourists overwhelmed the small town.
The report tracks the inflow and outflow of company funds.
Excessive sediment inflow can harm aquatic ecosystems.