wastewater

noun

waste·​wa·​ter ˈwāst-ˌwȯ-tər How to pronounce wastewater (audio)
-ˌwä-
: water that has been used (as in a manufacturing process) : sewage

Examples of wastewater in a Sentence

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.
Rinsing rice is a daily practice in some cultures, so many people use the leftover wastewater on plants. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 30 June 2026 Pollution from high-pressure wastewater injection can radiate much farther than a mile. — Nick Bowlin, ProPublica, 30 June 2026 For parts of the Massachusetts North Shore, the fate of 4th of July swimming for beachgoers rests on the timeline of temporary pipes being installed to stop a wastewater sewage leak. — Mike Sullivan, CBS News, 30 June 2026 Under the former, the priority is to continue providing water and wastewater services while minimizing creditor losses and restructuring the company so a new owner can be found. — Ian King, CNBC, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for wastewater

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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

Rhymes for wastewater

See All Rhymes for wastewater

Browse Nearby Words

wastetime
wastewater
waste-wax process
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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More from Merriam-Webster on wastewater

Nglish: Translation of wastewater for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about wastewater

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