waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯ-tər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwä-

1

a

: a perpendicular or very steep descent of the water of a stream

b

: an artificial waterfall (as in a hotel lobby or a nightclub)

2

: something resembling a waterfall

Synonyms of waterfall

• cascade

Examples of waterfall in a Sentence

I used to like to throw sticks in the stream and watch them go over the waterfall.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adults can head to the 20,000-square-foot Acqualina Spa, with an outdoor terrace hosting a spa pool, heated jet pool, and Roman waterfall spa; multiple steam rooms and saunas; and 11 treatment rooms plus a private spa suite for two. —Devorah Lev-Tov, Robb Report, 5 Feb. 2026

His lobby for 666 Fifth Avenue, a swoopy ceiling installation that met a waterfall along the back wall, was gradually compromised by renovations and then, in 2020, removed completely. —Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 4 Feb. 2026

This national park is an enchanting place with more than 275 miles of hiking trails that lead to waterfalls, lakes, and wildflower meadows. —Giovanna Caravetta, Travel + Leisure, 4 Feb. 2026

One of this writer's personal favorites, the waterfall blazer has lapels that layer and drape beautifully along the bust, becoming less dramatic down the length of the jacket. —Julia Guerra, InStyle, 28 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for waterfall

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwät-

: a fall of water usually from a great height