Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

brain-drain

Noun
/ˈbreɪn dreɪn/
Definition
The emigration of educated or professional individuals from one country to another, often in search of better opportunities or living conditions.
Examples
  • Many countries face the challenge of brain-drain as their best and brightest move abroad for better jobs.
  • The brain-drain phenomenon can hinder the development of a nation’s economy.
  • Efforts to reverse brain-drain are essential for countries aiming to retain their talent.
Meaning
Brain-drain refers to the phenomenon where talented and skilled workers leave their home country to seek employment or education elsewhere, typically in more developed nations. This can lead to a loss of intellectual capital in the origin country.
Synonyms
  • Talent flight
  • Human capital flight
  • Intellectual exodus