plumbing

noun

plumb·​ing ˈplə-miŋ How to pronounce plumbing (audio)
Synonyms of plumbingnext
1
: the act of using a plumb
2
: a plumber's occupation or trade
3
a
: the apparatus (such as pipes and fixtures) concerned in the distribution and use of water in a building
b
: an internal system that resembles plumbing
especially : one consisting of conduits or channels for conveying fluids

Examples of plumbing in a Sentence

The house has old plumbing.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
On the other side, the plumbing is being pushed toward neutral ground. — Janakiram Msv, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026 Prevent phorid flies by keeping drains clean, fixing plumbing issues, and maintaining low humidity in your home. — Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 28 June 2026 Packed houses and rising temperatures push HVAC and plumbing systems beyond their limits, and emergency calls spike accordingly. — Sharon Wu, USA Today, 4 July 2026 Four additional requests for service involving unpermitted plumbing, building and electrical renovations were opened earlier this year. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 6 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for plumbing

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of plumbing was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing plumbing

Rhymes for plumbing

See All Rhymes for plumbing

Browse Nearby Words

plumb in
plumbing
plumbing fixture
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Plumbing.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/plumbing. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

plumbing

noun
plumb·​ing ˈpləm-iŋ How to pronounce plumbing (audio)
1
: a plumber's work
2
: a system of pipes for supplying and carrying off water in a building
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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