“Water works” usually means the infrastructure that supplies and distributes clean water, like reservoirs, pipes, pumps, and treatment facilities. It can also mean tears or crying, and in some contexts it refers to a fountain or other decorative water display.

Common meanings

  • Public water system: the network that collects, purifies, stores, and delivers water to homes and businesses.
  • Tears: informal use for crying or the shedding of tears.
  • Decorative water display: a fountain, cascade, or similar show of moving water.

Simple example

  • “The city upgraded its water works to improve drinking water quality.”

TL;DR

“Water works” most often refers to a city’s water supply system, but it can also mean tears or a decorative fountain display.