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

Abound with three private beaches, a waterfall, spa complex, two tennis courts, infinity pool and hot tub, fitness center and a world class Par 72 PGA championship golf course. —Roger Sands, Forbes, 3 Dec. 2024

Jessica Kline and her 17-month-old daughter, Aurora, live in Munising, a tourist town on Lake Superior known for its waterfalls, shipwreck adventures, and breathtaking rocky shoreline. —Kate Wells, NPR, 2 Dec. 2024

To walk here is to walk in awe, with iconic waterfalls tumbling thousands of feet to their rocky demise and serene meadows juxtaposed by the mighty El Capitan and Half Dome formations. —Chelsee Lowe, Travel + Leisure, 2 Dec. 2024

One hundred shows over two years, waterfalls, pools, pyro, designer gowns, a career-spanning setlist and a one-of-a-kind vanishing act. —Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 26 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

Kids Definition

waterfall

noun

wa·​ter·​fall ˈwȯt-ər-ˌfȯl 

ˈwät-

: a fall of water usually from a great height