Definition

Water that is found just downstream from a dam or other structure, often affected by the flow and management of the water above it.

Example

The fish thrive in the tailwater below the dam, where the current is gentle and the water is rich in nutrients.

Conversation

Have you ever seen the tailwater below the dam after it rains?

Yeah, it really swells up and looks so powerful.

I always wonder how it affects the fish in that area.

It probably changes their habitat a lot, especially with all that extra water.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Tailwater → The word is formed from "tail" (from Old English "tægel", meaning the rear or end part) and "water" (from Old English "wæter", meaning water). Tailwater refers to the water located downstream from a dam or other structure, specifically the water that flows away from the tail end of such structures.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'rear part' ('tail') of a structure where the 'water' flows away — that's what tailwater means.

Visually Confused Words