A1 noun Neutral #3,286 most common

plumbing

/ˈplʌm.ɪŋ/

Plumbing is the system of pipes, tanks, and fittings used for the distribution of water and the removal of waste in a building. It refers to both the physical network of pipes and the work of installing and maintaining them.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The plumbing in our new apartment works perfectly.

The system of water pipes in our new home is in good condition.

2

The architect must approve the blueprints for the building's plumbing.

The professional designer needs to check the plans for the water systems.

3

The plumbing is acting up, so I can't take a shower.

The pipes are having problems, making it impossible to wash.

Word Family

Noun
plumbing
Verb
plumb
Adjective
plumbed
Related
plumber
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Memory Tip

Remember 'Pb' is the chemical symbol for Lead. In Latin, 'plumbum' means lead, which is what old pipes were made of.

Quick Quiz

We had to call a professional because the _______ in the kitchen was leaking.

Correct!

The correct answer is: plumbing

Examples

1

The plumbing in our new apartment works perfectly.

everyday

The system of water pipes in our new home is in good condition.

2

The architect must approve the blueprints for the building's plumbing.

formal

The professional designer needs to check the plans for the water systems.

3

The plumbing is acting up, so I can't take a shower.

informal

The pipes are having problems, making it impossible to wash.

4

Ancient civilizations developed complex plumbing to support urban populations.

academic

Old societies created advanced water systems for people living in cities.

5

Our firm provides a warranty for all industrial plumbing installations.

business

Our company offers a guarantee for all factory water system setups.

Word Family

Noun
plumbing
Verb
plumb
Adjective
plumbed
Related
plumber

Common Collocations

indoor plumbing water systems inside a house
fix the plumbing repair the water pipes
plumbing problems issues with the water system
modern plumbing new and advanced water systems
plumbing fixtures items like sinks and toilets

Common Phrases

check the plumbing

to inspect the water pipes

leaky plumbing

pipes that are dripping water

plumbing emergency

a serious and sudden pipe problem

Often Confused With

plumbing vs plumber

A plumber is the person who fixes things, while plumbing is the system of pipes itself.

📝

Usage Notes

Plumbing is an uncountable noun. You should use a singular verb with it, for example: 'The plumbing is old,' not 'The plumbing are old.'

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often pronounce the 'b' in plumbing, but it is silent. Always pronounce it as 'plum-ing'.

💡

Memory Tip

Remember 'Pb' is the chemical symbol for Lead. In Latin, 'plumbum' means lead, which is what old pipes were made of.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin word 'plumbum', meaning lead, because the first pipes used in Roman times were made of lead.

Grammar Patterns

Uncountable noun Usually takes a singular verb Often preceded by the definite article 'the'
🌍

Cultural Context

In most Western countries, indoor plumbing is considered a basic necessity and is standard in almost every home.

Quick Quiz

We had to call a professional because the _______ in the kitchen was leaking.

Correct!

The correct answer is: plumbing

Related Grammar Rules

More Home words

dining room

A1

A specific room in a house or building used primarily for eating meals. It usually contains a large table and several chairs for family members and guests.

garage

A1

A garage is a building or a part of a house where you keep cars or other vehicles to protect them. It can also be a place where a mechanic repairs cars or where people sell fuel.

basement

A1

A basement is the lowest floor of a building, usually located partly or completely underground. It is commonly used for storage, laundry, or as an extra living space in a home.

balcony

A1

A balcony is an outdoor platform that is attached to the upper floor of a building. It is usually surrounded by a low wall or railing for safety and is used for sitting or looking at the view.

porch

A1

A porch is a covered structure attached to the entrance of a building. It typically has a roof and serves as a space to sit outside while being protected from rain or direct sun.

drawer

A1

A drawer is a sliding, box-shaped container that is part of a piece of furniture like a desk or a dresser. It is used to store things like clothes, papers, or tools and can be pulled out to reach what is inside.

fridge

A1

A fridge is a large kitchen appliance used to keep food and drinks cold so they stay fresh for longer. It is the shortened, most common name for a refrigerator used in daily life.

stove

A1

A stove is a large piece of kitchen equipment used for cooking food. It provides heat through burners on the top or an enclosed space called an oven.

microwave

A1

A microwave is a common kitchen appliance used to cook or heat food very quickly using electromagnetic waves. It is mostly used for reheating leftovers, defrosting frozen items, or making quick meals.

washing machine

A1

A washing machine is a large household appliance used to wash clothes, towels, and linens automatically. It uses water, detergent, and mechanical action to clean fabrics during different timed cycles.

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