plumbing

noun

plumb·​ing ˈplə-miŋ How to pronounce plumbing (audio)
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
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.
Crews would also need to replace most of the plumbing and all of the flooring, cabinets and countertops. Nick Rosenberger, Idaho Statesman, 23 May 2025 If the inmates removed the sink in the cell and disconnected the rest of the plumbing with the water still on, the plan to escape would not have been successful and potentially flooded the cell, drawing attention to their actions. Bill Hutchinson, ABC News, 21 May 2025 Once the plumbing leaks or a tile or grout cracks, water will seep behind bathroom tile and support the growth of mold. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 20 May 2025 According to the sheriff's office, at least one of the metal bars shielding the plumbing appeared to have been deliberately cut with a tool. Dan Gooding gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for plumbing

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

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Cite this Entry

“Plumbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plumbing. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

plumbing

noun
plumb·​ing ˈpləm-iŋ How to pronounce plumbing (audio)
1
: a plumber's work
2
: a system of pipes for supplying and carrying off water in a building
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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