graywater (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈɡreɪˌwɔːtər/

Meaning and Usage

"Graywater" refers to all wastewater generated in households or office buildings from all activities except for toilet flushing. This includes water from sinks, showers, bathtubs, washing machines, and dishwashers. It is water that has been used but is not heavily contaminated, making it suitable for various recycling purposes, such as irrigation or toilet flushing, after proper treatment.

In terms of frequency, "graywater" is primarily used in written contexts, especially in discussions related to environmental science, sustainability, and plumbing. It is less commonly heard in everyday oral conversations.

Example Sentences

• "Many homeowners are now utilizing graywater systems to conserve water."

• "Viele Hausbesitzer nutzen jetzt Grauwassersysteme, um Wasser zu sparen."

• "The city has implemented regulations regarding the reuse of graywater for irrigation."

• "Die Stadt hat Vorschriften zur Wiederverwendung von Grauwasser zur Bewässerung eingeführt."

• "Installing a graywater recycling system can significantly reduce water bills."

• "Die Installation eines Grauwasser-Recyclingsystems kann die Wasserrechnung erheblich reduzieren."

Idiomatic Expressions

While "graywater" itself is not typically part of idiomatic expressions, its concept contributes to various discussions surrounding water conservation and sustainability. Here are some phrases that relate closely to "graywater" and its usage in environmental contexts:

• "Waste not, want not."

• "Verschwende nichts, du wirst nichts vermissen." (This emphasizes the importance of conserving resources, such as water.)

• "Do your bit for the planet."

• "Tu deinen Teil für den Planeten." (Advocating for actions like using graywater systems to protect the environment.)

• "Make every drop count."

• "Jeden Tropfen zählen lassen." (Stressing the importance of effective water usage and recycling.)

Etymology

The term "graywater" originated in the early 1990s, combining "gray," which refers to something that is lacking brightness or clarity (symbolically representing the condition of the water), and "water," derived from Old English "wæter." The concept has gained traction due to increasing environmental awareness and the need for sustainable water management practices.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Recycled water
• Greywater
• Wastewater (in a broader sense, though it can also refer to water from toilets)

Antonyms

• Freshwater
• Clean water
• Untreated water

In summary, "graywater" plays a significant role in discussions about environmental sustainability, and its usage reflects a growing concern over water conservation practices.