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

What happens if the waterworks stop working? —David Frum, The Atlantic, 4 Mar. 2026

The scanty snowpack accumulating this winter in the Colorado River headwaters is threatening Glen Canyon Dam’s hydropower production and complicating an already fraught balancing act for the Southwest’s waterworks. —Brandon Loomis, AZCentral.com, 28 Feb. 2026

The mayor said his city will respect the donor’s wishes and use the gift to improve waterworks projects. —Mari Yamaguchi, Los Angeles Times, 20 Feb. 2026

When wrap is finally called, Balfe releases the metaphorical pressure valve, letting the waterworks flow. —Amy Wilkinson, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Feb. 2026

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)