Definition of "waterworks"

The water supply system of a district, town, city, or other place, including reservoirs, pipes, and pumps.  examples

(treated as singular) Any single facility, such as a filtration plant or pumping station, within such a system.  examples

(figuratively)

1. (informal) Often in the form turn on the waterworks: crying or tears, especially in a way that is considered manipulative or over-emotional.  examples

2. (informal) Rain.  examples

3. (Britain, euphemistic) The genitourinary system.  examples

(historical, treated as singular) A hydraulic apparatus by which a supply of water is furnished for ornamental purposes; also, an ornamental fountain or waterfall.  quotations

(construction, archaic) Engineering works relating to the conveyance and flow of fluids (principally water), such as the collection and distribution of water, drainage, irrigation, etc.

plural of waterwork  examples