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

Consider hiring a good contractor who typically has a team that can address more complex areas of your kitchen, like the plumbing and electrical. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 19 Feb. 2026

Any other items, like tissues and disinfecting wipes, can cause clogs in plumbing and sewer systems. —Julia James, Dallas Morning News, 19 Feb. 2026

It was built in the late 1970s and also has mechanical, electrical and plumbing issues, officials said. —Gloria Casas, Chicago Tribune, 19 Feb. 2026

The expo connects students with professionals from more than 300 companies in fields such as construction, electrical work, plumbing, and mechanical systems. —Jamal Goss, CBS News, 19 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing plumbing

• indoor plumbing
• plumbing fixture

Rhymes for plumbing

• coming
• cumming
• drumming
• gumming
• humming
• numbing
• strumming
• summing
• thrumming
• thumbing
• becoming
• forthcoming

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