(n) the channel or break produced by erosion of relatively soft soil by water, Example:it was several days after the storm before they could repair the washout and open the road
(n) the erosive process of washing away soil or gravel by water (as from a roadway), Syn. wash, Example:from the house they watched the washout of their newly seeded lawn by the water
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English (GCIDE) v.0.53 Collaborative International Dictionary (GCIDE)
n. 1. The washing out or away of earth, etc., especially of a portion of the bed of a road or railroad by a fall of rain or a freshet; also, a place, especially in the bed of a road or railroad, where the earth has been washed away. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. a complete failure; -- of an enterprise. [ PJC ]
3. a person who has failed a course of study or training, leaving the program before its completion. [ PJC ]