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

With waterfall views and an ideal location among the old-school charm of Beacon’s shops and restaurants, the Roundhouse provides a perfect weekend escape for New Yorkers who want to feel a world away from home. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 Sep. 2026

Intense wind and surging waves from Hurricane Lowell damaged oceanfront resorts, ripped apart roads and knocked out power early this week on Kauai, known for its stunning tropical landscapes, waterfalls and dramatic cliffs. — Gene Johnson, Arkansas Online, 12 Sep. 2026

Rising like a spaceship over Exposition Park, the Lucas Museum pairs Ma Yansong’s futuristic form with 11 acres of lush parkland, Star Wars statues, a cooling waterfall and outdoor amphitheater. — Jessica Gelt, Los Angeles Times, 10 Sep. 2026

The waterfalls surrounding Hamilton tend to be busiest in the afternoons and on weekends, so a morning or a weekday hike will reward you with much quieter trails. — Maryam Siddiqi, Travel + Leisure, 9 Sep. 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
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwät-

: a fall of water usually from a great height