plumbing

American  

[pluhm-ing] / ˈplʌm ɪŋ /

noun

1. the system of pipes and other apparatus for conveying water, liquid wastes, etc., as in a building.

2. the work or trade of a plumber. plumber.

3. act of a person who plumbs, as in ascertaining depth.

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plumbing British  

/ ˈplʌmɪŋ /

noun

1. Also called: plumbery.  the trade or work of a plumber

2. the pipes, fixtures, etc, used in a water, drainage, or gas installation

3. the act or procedure of using a plumb to gauge depth, a vertical, etc

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Etymology

Origin of plumbing

First recorded in 1660–70; plumb + -ing ¹

Example Sentences

Hiring, he said, has become more difficult for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades because of retirements and immigration policy.

From The Wall Street Journal

Tarique Rahman, a leading contender for prime minister, said his BNP party plans to offer incentives to grow labor-intensive sectors such as footwear and pharmaceuticals and expand vocational training in trades like plumbing and carpentry.

From The Wall Street Journal

By the 1970s, the health dangers were well established, prompting the EPA to begin removing lead from paint, plumbing materials, gasoline, and other consumer products.

From Science Daily

After talking with his soon-to-be father-in-law—a sheet-metal worker—he took the union tests for plumbing, elevator construction and electrical work.

From The Wall Street Journal

Those who are supportive of or indifferent to the Fed’s large-balance-sheet policy argue it’s inevitable and inoffensive—a harmless consequence of changes in the financial plumbing since the 2008 panic.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• housewares