water tower

American  

noun

1. a vertical pipe or tower into which water is pumped to a height sufficient to maintain a desired pressure for firefighting, distribution to customers, etc.

2. a fire-extinguishing apparatus for throwing a stream of water on the upper parts of a tall burning building.

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water tower British  

noun

1. a reservoir or storage tank mounted on a tower-like structure at the summit of an area of high ground in a place where the water pressure would otherwise be inadequate for distribution at a uniform pressure

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Etymology

Origin of water tower

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The water tower which tops Victor's laboratory is a nod to one such Scottish landmark.

From BBC

While the projection paints a bleak future for the world's majestic water towers, there are pragmatic consequences if the current trend continues.

From Science Daily

The film featured gnarly practical effects, outsized, absurdist humor and enough fake blood to fill a local water tower.

From Salon

One victim was recently traced in Glasgow after a detective recognised a water tower in the background of a selfie.

From BBC

Although the streets are all still there, the only physical landmark of note that remains in the defunct neighborhood is the historic water tower itself.

From Salon