Waterhole: meaning, definitions and examples

A natural depression in the ground where water collects, commonly found in wild areas. It is often used when talking about wildlife or remote locations.

• The lions were spotted near the waterhole
• During the dry season, many animals gather around the waterhole

This can refer to either a place where animals drink in the wild or, informally, a place where people go to drink and socialize, such as a bar. The informal use can carry a casual or relaxed connotation.

• After a long day, they went to their favorite watering hole to grab a drink
• Zebras made their way to the watering hole

A long, narrow container from which domesticated animals drink. It is commonly found on farms and in areas where animals are kept by humans.

• Every morning, Sarah fills the watering trough for the horses
• The cattle were gathered around the watering trough in the barnyard

Any origin of water that provides water for drinking, agriculture, or other uses. It is often used in discussions about utilities, sustainability, or environmental science.

• The village is dependent on a single water source for all its needs
• Engineers are working to identify new water sources for the growing city