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.
See which episodes triggered the heaviest waterworks Comments Surely half of the water in the fictional town of Capeside, Mass., is made up of tears — both from the characters on Dawson's Creek and the fans crying alongside them. Jen Juneau, People.com, 24 May 2025 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 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 4 Jun. 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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