plumber

[pluhm-er]

noun

1. a person who installs and repairs piping, fixtures, appliances, and appurtenances in connection with the water supply, drainage systems, etc., both in and out of buildings.

2. Slang.,  an undercover operative or spy hired to detect or stop leaks of news or secret information, often using questionable or illegal methods, as illegal entry or wiretapping.

3. Obsolete.,  a worker in lead or similar metals.

plumber

/ ˈplʌmə /

noun

1. a person who installs and repairs pipes, fixtures, etc, for water, drainage, and gas

Word History and Origins

Origin of plumber¹

1375–1425; 1965–70 plumber for def. 2; late Middle English, spelling variant of Middle English plowber ≪ Late Latin plumbārius leadworker; replacing Middle English plummer < Anglo-French; Old French plummier < Latin, as above. See plumb, -er ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of plumber¹

C14: from Old French plommier worker in lead, from Late Latin plumbārius, from Latin plumbum lead

Example Sentences

“We have over a million openings in critical jobs, emergency services, trucking, factory workers, plumbers, electricians and tradesmen.”

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The official trailer for the sequel shows the chirpy red-capped Italian plumber cavorting with his friends and nemeses in a colourful intergalactic universe.

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One economist said he asked his plumber how tariffs are affecting his business when he came to do work in his home.

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“Many of the expenses associated with apprenticeship programs — such as for mechanics, plumbers and electricians — can be paid for with 529 plan funds,” Edward Jones adds.

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The plumber and tiler cited poor conditions and bad past experiences at government hurricane shelters for not wanting to flee.

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Related Words

• agent 
• detective 
• informer 
• investigator www.thesaurus.com
• mole 
• operative 
• secret agent 
• secret service 
• undercover agent www.thesaurus.com