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

Of course two water signs know how to turn on the waterworks. —Jennifer Zhan, Vulture, 5 Dec. 2024

With tourism accounting for more than 90% of the island’s economy, local authorities are seeking government approval to expand the airport, ferry transportation, waterworks, electricity network and roads. —Stephanie Yang, Los Angeles Times, 4 Dec. 2024

Still, the idea of watching on from the sidelines as his team-mates played in his beloved Champions League was enough to start the waterworks. —Elias Burke, The Athletic, 18 Aug. 2024

Ilario is broken up about Walden’s death, but Damon doesn’t oversell the waterworks. —Will Leitch, Vulture, 9 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1621, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing waterworks

• turn on the waterworks

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)