# cistern

/ˈsɪstɝn/ (US) · /sˈɪstən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cistern
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a large tank used to store water. You often see these on the roofs of buildings or in gardens to collect rainwater.

For teachers: a large tank or reservoir for storing water, typically located on a roof or in a basement. Often used for collecting rainwater or providing a secondary water supply.

## Examples

- The garden fountain is fed by a large cistern on the roof.
- During the long summer drought, the residents relied on the rooftop cistern to provide water for their vegetable patch.
- The ancient city's sophisticated water management system included a series of underground cisterns designed to collect and filter rainwater for the entire population.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.