March 25 2009

wa⋅ter 

1.	a transparent, odorless, tasteless liquid, a compound of hydrogen and oxygen, H2O, freezing at 32°F or 0°C and boiling at 212°F or 100°C, that in a more or less impure state constitutes rain, oceans, lakes, rivers, etc.: it contains 11.188 percent hydrogen and 88.812 percent oxygen, by weight.

2.	a special form or variety of this liquid, as rain.

3.	Often, waters. this liquid in an impure state as obtained from a mineral spring: Last year we went to Marienbad for the waters.

4.	the liquid content of a river, inlet, etc., with reference to its relative height, esp. as dependent on tide: a difference of 20 feet between high and low water.

5.	the surface of a stream, river, lake, ocean, etc.: above, below, or on the water.

6.	waters, a. flowing water, or water moving in waves: The river's mighty waters. b. the sea or seas bordering a particular country or continent or located in a particular part of the world: We left San Diego and sailed south for Mexican waters.

7.	a liquid solution or preparation, esp. one used for cosmetic purposes: lavender water; lemon water.

8.	Often, waters. Medicine/Medical. a. amniotic fluid. b. the bag of waters; amnion: Her water broke at 2 a.m.

9.	any of various solutions of volatile or gaseous substances in water: ammonia water.

10.	any liquid or aqueous organic secretion, exudation, humor, or the like, as tears, perspiration, or urine

Rachel