Plumbing

/ˈplʌm.bɪŋ/ noun

Definition

The system of pipes and fixtures that delivers water and removes waste in buildings; also means the work of installing or fixing these systems.

Etymology

From Latin 'plumbum' (lead), because ancient Romans used lead pipes for water systems—the word stuck even though modern plumbing uses copper and PVC instead.

Kelly Says

Roman engineering was so advanced that 'plumber' comes from the Latin word for lead, and some historians think lead poisoning from drinking pipes may have contributed to Rome's fall—a word carrying ancient tragedy.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.