cold-wa·ter
ˈkōld-ˌwȯ-tər 
-ˌwä-
: having only running water without heat or utility services provided
a cold-water flat
: depreciation of something as being ill-advised, unwarranted, or worthless
threw cold water on our hopes
Examples of cold-water in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Ian Parker, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025
The cotton blend also maintained its size, shape, and color after multiple cold-water washes and low-heat spins in the dryer.
—Kevin Gray, Travel + Leisure, 18 Dec. 2025
Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 21 Jan. 2026
Any obvious surface dirt can be rinsed under cold water before storing but there is no need to wash them thoroughly—and be sure to thoroughly dry the leeks before storing.
—Riley Wofford, Martha Stewart, 20 Jan. 2026
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Adjective
Navarro might continue a discussion while taking a cold-water plunge in a specialized indoor tub.
—Ian Parker, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025
The cotton blend also maintained its size, shape, and color after multiple cold-water washes and low-heat spins in the dryer.
—Kevin Gray, Travel + Leisure, 18 Dec. 2025
Noun
Rinse rice in several changes of cold water until the water runs clear.
—Gretchen McKay, Boston Herald, 21 Jan. 2026
Any obvious surface dirt can be rinsed under cold water before storing but there is no need to wash them thoroughly—and be sure to thoroughly dry the leeks before storing.
—Riley Wofford, Martha Stewart, 20 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for cold-water
Cite this Entry
“Cold-water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cold-water. Accessed 26 Jan. 2026.
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