Definition

Noun 1. The amniotic fluid surrounding a fetus in the womb: This is a specialized biological fluid. 2. A specific body of water, such as a river, lake, or sea, especially considered in terms of its legal or geographical jurisdiction: This use is often plural and refers to a particular area of water. 3. The water of a mineral spring, typically considered to have health benefits: This use is often plural. 4. (Proper Noun) A surname.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Amniotic Fluid):
  • The doctor confirmed that her waters had broken, signaling the start of labor.
  • An ultrasound can check the volume of the waters to ensure the baby's health.
• Noun (Body of Water):
  • The ship entered the territorial waters of the coastal nation.
  • Fishing is prohibited in these waters during the spawning season.
• Noun (Mineral Spring):
  • Many people visit the spa to drink the healing waters.
  • The town was famous for its therapeutic hot waters.

Advanced Usage

• "To test the waters": To try something cautiously to see if it will be successful or well-received before fully committing.
  • Before launching the product nationwide, the company decided to test the waters in a few select cities.
• "Muddy the waters": To make a situation more confusing or less clear.
  • His complicated explanation only served to muddy the waters further.
• "In deep waters" / "In troubled waters": In a difficult or dangerous situation.
  • The company found itself in deep waters after the financial scandal.

Variants and Related Words

• Water (noun, verb): The common, uncountable form of the liquid H₂O; to pour water on something.
• Watery (adjective): Containing or resembling water; diluted.
• Watered (adjective): (e.g., watered silk) Having a wavy, lustrous pattern; (e.g., watered-down) diluted.

Synonyms

• Amniotic fluid (for definition 1).
• Sea, ocean, river, lake (for definition 2, context-dependent).
• Springs, spa waters (for definition 3).

Related Phrases

• "Blood is thicker than water": Family relationships are stronger and more important than other relationships.
• "Still waters run deep": A quiet or placid person often has a profound or complex character.

Noun

1. the serous fluid in which the embryo is suspended inside the amnion
   • before a woman gives birth her waters break
2. United States actress and singer (1896-1977)