floodgates
flood-gates
noun
A barrier controlling water flow, often in a river or canal.
"They opened the floodgates to prevent flooding."
noun
A sudden, uncontrolled release or outpouring of something previously restrained.
"Her speech opened the floodgates of criticism."
Thesaurus
Synonyms: sluicegate, head gate, sluice valve, floodgate, penstock, water gate