flume Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a narrow gorge with a stream running through it
    gulch.
  2. noun watercourse that consists of an open artificial chute filled with water for power or for carrying logs

WordNet

Flume noun
Etymology
Cf. OE. flum river, OF, flum, fr. L. flumen, fr. fluere to flow. *84. See Fluent.
Definitions
  1. A stream; especially, a passage channel, or conduit for the water that drives a mill wheel; or an artifical channel of water for hydraulic or placer mining; also, a chute for conveying logs or lumber down a declivity.

Webster 1913