Spuinen

Spuinen is a term that can refer to several related concepts, primarily associated with Dutch water management and urban features. In its most common usage, a spui is a sluice or conduit designed to discharge water from a polder or canal. These structures are crucial for draining excess water from low-lying areas, preventing flooding, and maintaining water levels. They are often operated by tidal movements or by pumps.

The word "spuinen" also refers to the act of operating or managing these sluices. This involves opening and closing the gates to regulate water flow according to agricultural needs, navigation requirements, and flood control strategies. Historically, spuinen were vital for reclaiming land from the sea and for making inland waterways navigable.

In some Dutch cities, particularly Amsterdam, a "spui" can also refer to a street or square that was formerly the site of a sluice or discharge channel. These urban spaces often retain historical significance and may still feature water elements or commemorate their past function. Examples include the Spui square in Amsterdam. The term’s origins are firmly rooted in the Dutch struggle to control and manage water, a defining aspect of the country’s landscape and history.