waterworks

plural noun

wa·​ter·​works ˈwȯ-tər-ˌwərks How to pronounce waterworks (audio)
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
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 close-to-tears tone in Jack's voice and Mr. Peterson (Edmund Kearney) forcing him to continue reading are enough to get the waterworks going. Jen Juneau, People.com, 24 May 2025 Clauson-Kaas is chief consultant for the Copenhagen waterworks utility HOFOR, which is overseeing the construction of the tunnel. Rob Schmitz, NPR, 13 June 2025 The waterworks had a backup water source, the Des Moines River. Dave Hage, Literary Hub, 27 May 2025 But sometime in the 1980s, biochemists working for the waterworks began to detect something wrong with the river. Dave Hage, Literary Hub, 27 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for waterworks

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of waterworks was in 1621

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Cite this Entry

“Waterworks.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/waterworks. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

waterworks

plural noun
wa·​ter·​works ˈwȯt-ər-ˌwərks How to pronounce waterworks (audio)
ˈwät-
: a system of reservoirs, pumps, and pipes for supplying water (as to a city)

More from Merriam-Webster on waterworks

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