[waw-ter-wurks, wot-er-] 
| 1. | (used with a singular or plural verb ) a complete system of reservoirs, pipelines, conduits, etc., by which water is collected, purified, stored, and pumped to urban users. |
| 2. | (used with a singular verb) a pumping station or a purifying station of such a system. |
| 3. | (usually used with a plural verb) Sometimes, waterwork. a spectacular display of water, mechanically produced, as for a pageant. |
| 4. | (used with a singular or plural verb) Slang. tears, or the source of tears: to turn on the waterworks. |
| 5. | Slang. the kidneys. |