1. a gate that can be opened or closed to control the flow of water
2. something that restrains an outpouring or surge
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The engineers opened the floodgates to release water from the dam.
• Heavy rains forced officials to close the floodgates.
• The scandal opened the floodgates of criticism.
• His resignation opened the floodgates for other employees to quit.
• The new policy could open the floodgates to abuse.
• Once she started crying, it was like opening the floodgates.
• The floodgate mechanism controls water levels in the canal.