wastewater

noun

waste·​wa·​ter ˈwāst-ˌwȯ-tər How to pronounce wastewater (audio)
-ˌwä-
: water that has been used (as in a manufacturing process) : sewage

Examples of wastewater in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Both the Patapsco and Back River facilities — Baltimore’s two largest wastewater plants — are seeking discharge permit renewals from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), with a public comment period open for the Patapsco River plant permit through June 20. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 6 June 2025 The problem, blamed on outdated wastewater infrastructure, has persisted for decades but has spiraled in recent years as Tijuana's population skyrocketed. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 5 June 2025 The new tool is available for use in nearly 150 wastewater treatment facilities across 40 states. Deidre McPhillips, CNN Money, 4 June 2025 Some state health departments—including in Texas, where the current measles outbreaks began—also test wastewater samples. Alice Park, Time, 3 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for wastewater

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wastewater was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Wastewater.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wastewater. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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