water hammer

American  

noun

1. the concussion and accompanying noise that result when a volume of water moving in a pipe suddenly stops or loses momentum.

---

water hammer British  

noun

1. a sharp concussion produced when the flow of water in a pipe is suddenly blocked

---

Etymology

Origin of water hammer

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

Washing machines, dishwashers and ice makers are especially prone to water hammer, because they have solenoid switches that instantly turn off the water instead of the gradual closing that happens with a faucet.

From Washington Post • Sep. 18, 2020

Once you’ve fixed the problems at the washer, dishwasher and ice maker, if water hammer problems continue elsewhere, you have a few options.

From Washington Post • Sep. 18, 2020

A: The knocking sounds are what’s known as water hammer, caused when water flowing in pipes suddenly shuts off and vibrates with enough force to cause the pipes to knock against wood framing.

From Washington Post • Sep. 18, 2020

When a larger volume of steam is colapsed by colder water, the bang or banging is much louder and is called water hammer.

From New York Times • Nov. 28, 2016

Note.—To steady the flow and prevent "water hammer," a small air-chamber should be attached to the delivery pipe.

From Things To Make by Williams, Archibald