noun
plumber
PLUM-er/ˈplʌmər/
A tradesperson who installs and repairs pipes and plumbing fixtures.
The plumber tightens the pipe connection beneath the sink.
Etymology
A plumber was originally a worker in lead, including roofs, gutters, and pipes. The occupation narrowed toward installing pipes and fittings as lead water and gas pipes became its principal concern.
In context
The job description of a plumber encompasses the installation, maintenance, and repair of water systems piping fixtures and associated appliances within residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
More examples
- We called a plumber when the sink stopped draining.
- The plumber installed the new shower.
- She trained as a plumber after high school.
Forms
plumber · plumbers
plumbing noun — pipes and their installation or repair
Similar words
- pipefitter
- Often specializes in industrial piping rather than general household plumbing.