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.

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water hammer British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of water hammer

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

Although it’s simple enough for a plumber to cut out a short section of copper pipe and sweat-solder a water hammer arrester into the space, cutting through walls causes a lot of follow-up work.

From Washington Post • Sep. 18, 2020

One would be to install water hammer arresters into piping close to where the noises occur.

From Washington Post • Sep. 18, 2020

Manufacturers now make inexpensive, easy-to-install water hammer arresters where these appliances connect to the water system.

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