waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯ-tər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwä-

1

a

: a perpendicular or very steep descent of the water of a stream

b

: an artificial waterfall (as in a hotel lobby or a nightclub)

2

: something resembling a waterfall

Synonyms

• cascade
• cataract
• fall(s)

Examples of waterfall in a Sentence

I used to like to throw sticks in the stream and watch them go over the waterfall.

Recent Examples on the Web

More than 40 acres of the resort are undeveloped, giving guests the chance to explore wetlands, old-growth forests, and a historic quarry with a waterfall that’s active year-round, all without leaving the property. —Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 16 Mar. 2025

Go north for the wilds outside of Palm Springs—from Indian Canyons to Joshua Tree—with waterfalls, palm oases, and excellent topography for bouldering. —Visit California, AFAR Media, 14 Mar. 2025

Other notable sights include a 200-year-old pioneer cabin, waterfalls, and vibrant rhododendrons that burst into bloom and line popular trails every June. —Casey Barber, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2025

Among the flowering plants, trees and waterfalls are 50 to 60 butterfly species from around the world plus more than 20 exotic bird species. —Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for waterfall

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwät-

: a fall of water usually from a great height