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

So, what was the twist that elicited all these waterworks? —Andy Swift, TVLine, 8 Oct. 2025

The waterworks forced the cancellation of that night’s Cal Ripken Sr. —David K. Li, NBC news, 1 Oct. 2025

The number culminated in some choreography complete with literal waterworks. —Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 8 Sep. 2025

The real-life Kerr joined in the waterworks. —Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

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)