to run dry; to cut off flow
Meanings
3 senses · 6 examplesverb
(of a river, stream) to run dry; to cease flowing
neutralMost commonly used for natural water bodies, often due to drought or over-extraction. Can also be used figuratively or for other types of flow.
Due to persistent drought, this mother river has run dry for two months.
After the dam was built upstream, the downstream river channel often runs dry in the dry season.
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The prolonged drought and the river running dry have dealt a heavy blow to local agriculture.
verb
to cut off (water, electricity, gas, etc.); to interrupt the flow
neutralUsed when a service or supply is intentionally stopped, such as for maintenance or due to non-payment.
Because of pipe maintenance, the water supply in the neighborhood will be cut off for one hour at 9 a.m. tomorrow.
He forgot to pay the electricity bill, and his power was cut off.
verb
to have a traffic jam come to a standstill; (of traffic) to be completely blocked
informalA figurative extension, often used in transportation and logistics contexts.
Due to a serious accident ahead, the traffic flow on the highway has come to a complete standstill.