Meaning & Definition
noun
A duct, pipe, or channel for conveying exhaust gases from an appliance to the outside atmosphere.
The chimney's flue was blocked, causing smoke to fill the living room.
A tube or passage in a chimney, furnace, or other structure that directs smoke or gases.
The flue must be cleaned regularly to ensure proper ventilation.
A pipe for conveying hot air or smoke to a chimney.
To maintain efficiency, the flue needs to be inspected annually.
Etymology
Middle English 'flue', from Old French 'flue', a variant of 'flus', meaning 'to flow'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
clean the flue:
To remove blockages or soot from a flue.
flue gas:
The gas produced from combustion that exits through the flue.
flue liner:
A lining that protects the walls of a flue.
Slang Meanings
In slang, 'flue' can refer to a situation that's going awry.
If things keep going like this, we're in a complete flue.