waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯ-tər-ˌfȯl How to pronounce waterfall (audio)
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

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
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.
The Jungfrau Region is situated in southwest Switzerland, in the Bernese Highlands, which is known for its glacial lakes, waterfalls, and stunning valleys. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 11 Oct. 2025 But those changes also created a waterfall effect that had Oliver Stark's Buck feeling a certain way. Patrick Gomez, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Oct. 2025 Ciudad Valles The Mexican state of San Luis Potosí is famous for its seemingly unreal, cerulean blue waterfalls. Sarah Buder, AFAR Media, 8 Oct. 2025 Apart from the gorges and cliffs, the area features beautiful waterfalls and rock shelters. Chad Murphy, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for waterfall

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of waterfall was before the 12th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Waterfall.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waterfall. Accessed 15 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun
wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl How to pronounce waterfall (audio)
ˈwät-
: a fall of water usually from a great height

More from Merriam-Webster on waterfall

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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