head gate

noun

1. a control gate at the upstream end of a canal or lock.
2. a floodgate of a race, sluice, etc.

head gate

noun

1. a gate that is used to control the flow of water at the upper end of a lock or conduit Compare tail gate
2. another name for floodgate

Word History and Origins

Origin of head gate¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

The irrigation district argued that historically, those creeks flowed naturally and that the head gates were installed later.

From Seattle Times

In July of that year, activists broke into the head gates and turned the water on.

From Los Angeles Times

Already, they have purchased property adjacent to the head gates and staged protests there.

From Seattle Times

The last time water was substantially cut off to farmers, in 2001, demonstrators forced open the canal’s head gates three times before federal marshals arrived and stayed all summer.

From Seattle Times

About 30 protesters showed up Thursday at the head gates of the main dam to protest the shut-off and ask the irrigation district to defy federal orders and divert the water.

From Seattle Times