waterworks

1. The water supply system of a district, town, city, or other place, including reservoirs, pipes, and pumps.
2. Any single facility, such as a filtration plant or pumping station, within such a system. · She is employed by a waterworks at the outskirts of the city.
3. Often in the form turn on the waterworks: crying or tears, especially in a way that is considered manipulative or over-emotional. (figuratively, informal) · She turned on the waterworks when we told her the old man was dead, but she was asking questions about the will soon enough.
4. Rain. (figuratively, informal)
5. A hydraulic apparatus by which a supply of water is furnished for ornamental purposes; also, an ornamental fountain or waterfall.

Plural waterworks