low water

American  

noun

1. water at its lowest level, as in a river.

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low water British  

noun

1. another name for low tide

2. the state of any stretch of water at its lowest level

3. a situation of difficulty or point of least success, excellence, etc

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Other Word Forms

• low-water
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of low water

First recorded in 1520–30

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

low water

France and Switzerland, too, reduced their nuclear output because of high river temperatures or low water levels.

From Barron's ● Aug. 25, 2026

The Bundesbank said low water levels in Germany, particularly on the River Rhine, are likely to temporarily impede the country’s economic growth.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 20, 2026

And in the UK, low water levels at a reservoir in Rutland have uncovered the remains of the village of Nether Hambleton, which was demolished and flooded to create the reservoir.

From BBC ● Aug. 19, 2026

The Rhine - another of Europe's key waterway - is also suffering low water levels, which is severely limiting traffic.

From BBC ● Aug. 13, 2026

It took Ralph at low water when his nerve was relaxed for the return to the shelter and the still, friendly waters of the lagoon.

From "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding