1. a channel or conduit that carries water from a source to a water wheel, turbine, or mill
Usage: technical; engineering

Examples

• The headrace diverted water from the river to power the old mill.
• Engineers designed the headrace to maintain a steady flow to the turbine.
• The headrace was lined with concrete to prevent water loss.
• Water flowed through the headrace before dropping into the water wheel.
• The dam's headrace system efficiently transported water to the hydroelectric plant.