plumbing

noun

plumb·​ing ˈplə-miŋ 

1

: the act of using a plumb

2

: a plumber's occupation or trade

3

a

: the apparatus (such as pipes and fixtures) concerned in the distribution and use of water in a building

b

: an internal system that resembles plumbing

especially : one consisting of conduits or channels for conveying fluids

Examples of plumbing in a Sentence

The house has old plumbing.

Recent Examples on the Web

Generic Modern Tiny Home This 20-foot-deep home comes equipped with plumbing and electrical systems. —Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 15 July 2024

Having an assortment of quotidian chores to complete—planting flowers, fussing with the plumbing, chopping vegetables—inhibits the sort of passive scrolling that can leave a person glazed over and neurotic. —Amanda Petrusich, The New Yorker, 11 July 2024

While some professions don't require college degrees and can also provide good livings — such as trades like plumbing or electrical wiring — the earnings and wealth gap between college and high school grads remains significant. —Aimee Picchi, CBS News, 10 July 2024

More costly things like major plumbing and roofing now need to be done. —Jeanne Phillips, The Mercury News, 6 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing plumbing

• indoor plumbing
• plumbing fixture

Kids Definition

plumbing

noun

plumb·​ing ˈpləm-iŋ 

1

: a plumber's work

2

: a system of pipes for supplying and carrying off water in a building