irrigation

noun

ir·​ri·​ga·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce irrigation (audio)
1
: the watering of land by artificial means to foster plant growth
2
: the therapeutic flushing of a body part with a stream of liquid

Examples of irrigation 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.
Farmers in the Imperial Valley, who faced cuts beginning in 2020 that led to some fields being left fallow, will have to reconsider their crops, invest in water-saving irrigation systems, and possibly reduce their yield. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 13 Oct. 2025 Gerbera daisies abhor overhead irrigation that can lead to mildew problems and grow splendidly when surrounded by gravel or wood chips. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 11 Oct. 2025 Updates to the par 71 course include re-routing the infrastructure of the course, relocation of putting greens, additional parking spaces and irrigation improvements, according to the city. Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Oct. 2025 As seedlings emerge, reduce the frequency of watering and practice deeper irrigation. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for irrigation

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of irrigation was in 1612

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Irrigation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irrigation. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

irrigation

noun
ir·​ri·​ga·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce irrigation (audio)
: an act or process of irrigating

More from Merriam-Webster on irrigation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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