waterspout

noun

wa·​ter·​spout ˈwȯ-tər-ˌspau̇t How to pronounce waterspout (audio)
ˈwä-
Synonyms of waterspoutnext
1
: a pipe, duct, or orifice from which water is spouted or through which it is carried
2
: a funnel-shaped or tubular column of rotating cloud-filled wind usually extending from the underside of a cumulus or cumulonimbus cloud down to a cloud of spray torn up by the whirling winds from the surface of an ocean or lake

Synonyms of waterspout

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Examples of waterspout in a Sentence

the waterspout became clogged, and then the roof leaked
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.
Beach conditions will be hazardous with big waves and even a chance of a waterspout or coastal tornado along the cold front. — Anthony Edwards, San Francisco Chronicle, 10 Apr. 2026 Tornadoes can also form over water as waterspouts. — Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026 Conditions are favorable for the development of weak, brief funnel clouds or weak waterspouts. — Nc Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 16 June 2026 The rain and gusty winds also could bring small hail and the possibility of a waterspout or small tornado, according to the weather service. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for waterspout

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of waterspout was in the 14th century

Rhymes for waterspout

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Browse Nearby Words

water spot
waterspout
water sprite
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

waterspout

noun
wa·​ter·​spout ˈwȯt-ər-ˌspau̇t How to pronounce waterspout (audio)
ˈwät-
1
: a pipe for carrying off water from a roof
2
: a column of rotating wind extending from a cloud down to a cloud of spray torn up from the surface of a body of water by the winds

More from Merriam-Webster on waterspout

Nglish: Translation of waterspout for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about waterspout

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