Faucet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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faucet
[ˈfɔːsɪt ]
Definition
bathroom
A device that controls the flow of water from a pipe. It is commonly used in bathrooms and kitchens for washing hands, dishes, etc.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| faucet |
Commonly used in American English to refer to a device for controlling the flow of water from a pipe.
|
| tap |
Widely used in British English to refer to the same device for controlling the flow of water. Can also be used in American English, but less commonly.
|
| spigot |
Often used in American English, particularly to refer to an outdoor water valve.
|
Examples of usage
- Please turn off the faucet when you're done washing your hands.
- The faucet in the kitchen is leaking.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
History
- Ancient Romans engineered sophisticated aqueduct systems that included early versions of faucets to access flowing water.
- In the 19th century, modern plumbing systems started to incorporate faucets that allowed for easier water access in homes.
- The first mechanical faucet was designed in the 1880s, greatly improving water control and conservation.
Science
- Faucets operate using a simple principle of pressure – turning the handle changes the water's flow rate.
- The materials used in faucets, like brass or stainless steel, help prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring durability.
- Technology has advanced faucet design, with options available that conserve water and reduce waste, such as low-flow faucets.
Pop Culture
- Faucets have featured in various movies and TV shows, often symbolizing modernity and comfort in a home.
- In cartoons, turning a faucet can lead to comedic moments where water sprays unexpectedly or floods a room.
- The term 'faucet' has crossed into idiomatic usage, such as in expressions about 'turning on the faucet of creativity' to describe an influx of ideas.
Literature
- Faucets often symbolize the flow of ideas or emotions in literary works, representing how easily thoughts can be shared or stifled.
- In poetry, water themes often intersect with the imagery of faucets, suggesting the abundance or scarcity of resources.
- William Carlos Williams's poetry frequently employs domestic imagery, where the faucet becomes a focal point for daily life.
Origin of 'faucet'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'faucet' comes from the Old French word 'fausset', which means 'a tap' or 'spigot'.
- It traces back to the Latin 'faucis', meaning 'throat', referring to the narrow passage through which water flows.
- The term has been used in the English language since the 14th century, showing its long-standing utility in households.
The word 'faucet' originated from the Old French word 'fausset', which means 'bung' or 'stopper'. It was used in the context of controlling the flow of liquids. The term evolved over time to refer specifically to the device used to control water flow in pipes. The modern usage of 'faucet' can be traced back to the 16th century.