waterworks

plural noun

wa·​ter·​works ˈwȯ-tər-ˌwərks 

ˈwä-

1

: the system of reservoirs, channels, mains, and pumping and purifying equipment by which a water supply is obtained and distributed (as to a city)

2

: an ornamental fountain or cascade

3

: the shedding of tears : tears

Examples of waterworks in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Which is basically a switch to bring on the waterworks for anyone watching. —Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 4 Apr. 2025

From her heartfelt dedication to her sisters, husband and son to her declaration of pride at being the first Dominican winner and a child of immigrants, there were plenty of opportunities for waterworks at home. —Alex Apatoff, People.com, 3 Mar. 2025

If there are moments where Kramer definitely turns on the waterworks, with a score by Jordan Dykstra (20 Days in Mariupol) amplifying the impact of such scenes, the movie remains a more even-handed account of events relative to so much out there, whether on TV or social media. —Jordan Mintzer, The Hollywood Reporter, 20 Feb. 2025

There were no waterworks Sunday night, though a loud ovation that followed public address announcer Ryan Mill noting the achievement did not go unnoticed by Crosby. —Rob Rossi, The Athletic, 29 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing waterworks

• turn on the waterworks

Rhymes for waterworks

• ironworks
• masterworks
• artworks
• breastworks
• brickworks
• earthworks
• fireworks
• frameworks
• gasworks
• glassworks
• headworks
• networks

Kids Definition

waterworks

plural noun

wa·​ter·​works ˈwȯt-ər-ˌwərks 

ˈwät-

: a system of reservoirs, pumps, and pipes for supplying water (as to a city)