Water well: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to refer to a man-made structure that accesses underground water for use, especially in rural areas or places without municipal water supply.

• We dug a water well in our backyard to have a reliable source of water.
• The villagers rely on the water well for their daily needs.

A general term for any place or system where water can be obtained, including rivers, lakes, wells, and aquifers.

• The main water source for the city is the nearby reservoir.
• During the hike, we found a clear stream as a water source.

Refers to a natural underground layer of water-bearing rock suitable for extracting groundwater. It is often used in geological and environmental studies.

• The local aquifer provides clean water to the neighboring towns.
• The scientists conducted tests to measure the water level in the aquifer.

A water well is a structure created in the ground by digging, driving, or drilling to access groundwater. Commonly used in rural areas or places where a municipal water supply is not available.

• They dug a water well to supply the village with fresh water.
• The farm relies on a water well for irrigation.

A well shaft refers to the vertical structure within a well used primarily for accessing deeper water levels or for maintenance purposes. This term is often used in engineering or construction contexts.

• The engineers inspected the well shaft for any structural issues.
• They lowered a camera down the well shaft to check for obstructions.

A water bore, or borehole, specifically refers to a deep, narrow hole drilled into the ground to extract water, typically for agricultural, industrial, or scientific purposes. It usually indicates a more technical or mechanical process compared to a general water well.

• The company installed a water bore to provide water for their cooling systems.
• Farmers often use water bores to ensure a steady supply of water during dry seasons.