tap water

American  

noun

1. water, obtained directly from a faucet or tap, that has not been purified, distilled, or otherwise treated.

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tap water British  

noun

1. water drawn off through taps from pipes in a house, as distinguished from distilled water, mineral water, etc

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Etymology

Origin of tap water

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The Democratic governor reflected on other parts of his water policies, saying he has prioritized securing funds to provide clean drinking water to more communities where Californians live with contaminated tap water.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

People have been urged not to use tap water for anything other than flushing toilets.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

Some bottlers sell tap water purified through reverse‑osmosis filtration which removes the minerals and flavour, he said.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

"Then they came in with bottled water and said don't use the tap water to brush your teeth."

From BBC • Jan. 24, 2026

Her backyard is all frost and ice and our hands sting from the tap water.

From "Angela's Ashes: A Memoir" by Frank McCourt