English Reference
noun

waters

n.
US /ˈwɔtɝz/ UK /wˈɔːtəz/ wa·ters

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate Literary

    a large area of water, such as an ocean, a sea, or a very large lake.

    a collective reference to a large expanse of water, typically a sea or ocean.

    Simple

    The ship sailed across the deep blue waters of the Pacific.

    In context

    The explorer spent years navigating the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean, documenting previously uncharted islands along the way.

  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    the part of the sea that belongs to a specific country.

    the area of sea under the jurisdiction of a particular nation or state.

    Simple

    The fishing boat was caught entering international waters without a permit.

    In context

    Diplomatic tensions escalated after the naval vessel was spotted patrolling within the sovereign waters of the neighbouring island nation.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Medicine

    the liquid that surrounds a baby inside the mother before it is born.

    the amniotic fluid that surrounds a foetus in the womb, typically mentioned when the membranes rupture before birth.

    Simple

    She knew the baby was coming soon because her waters broke.

    In context

    The midwife advised the couple to head to the hospital immediately once the mother's waters had broken.

    Usage

    Usually used in the plural with the verb 'break'.

    amniotic fluid
This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated