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

• cascade
• cataract
• fall(s)

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

Red River Gorge, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, spans nearly 30,000 acres and is home to scenic waterfalls, natural forming bridges, jagged cliffs and more. —Ana Rocío Álvarez Bríñez, The Courier-Journal, 12 Oct. 2024

From the ancient rainforests of Queensland, to the waterfalls and islands in the Kimberley region of Western Australia, to the dynamic urban atmospheres of Sydney and Melbourne, there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy here. —Matt Ortile, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Oct. 2024

Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy visiting the island for hiking, including the famed La Soufriere Volcano which reaches over 4,000 feet tall, and many waterfalls. —Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 9 Oct. 2024

The boardwalk will replace the steps that lead to the viewing platform at the waterfall's brink, with benches installed along the way, said Kevin Dennis, Tahquamenon Falls State Park supervisor in the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' Parks and Recreation Division. —Keith Matheny, Detroit Free Press, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwät-

: a fall of water usually from a great height