cold-water

1 of 2

adjective

cold-wa·​ter ˈkōld-ˌwȯ-tər How to pronounce cold-water (audio)
-ˌwä-
: having only running water without heat or utility services provided
a cold-water flat

cold water

2 of 2

noun

: 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
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.
Adjective
Can’t bear the shock of a cold-water splash? Chloe Burcham, Vogue, 5 Feb. 2026 These retreats have been designed around the island’s five unique seasons (springrise being the fifth) and include mindful cold-water immersions in the Baltic, aquatic movement sessions, and, of course, sauna rituals. Jen Murphy, Outside, 1 Feb. 2026
Noun
Always turn your ski socks inside out to minimize pilling, and wash in cold water on a gentle cycle with mild detergent. Jonathan Thompson, Travel + Leisure, 9 Feb. 2026 Run them through using the gentle cycle with cold water and soap. Molly Burford, Southern Living, 9 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cold-water

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1942, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1808, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cold-water was in 1808

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Cold-water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cold-water. Accessed 12 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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