First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
plumber
noun plumb·er \ˈplə-mər\
: a person whose job is to install or repair sinks, toilets, water pipes, etc.
Full Definition of PLUMBER
1
: a dealer or worker in lead
2
: one who installs, repairs, and maintains piping, fittings, and fixtures involved in the distribution and use of water in a building
3
: a person whose job is to prevent or put an end to leaks of sensitive information
See plumber defined for English-language learners
See plumber defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of PLUMBER
Middle English, from Anglo-French plummer, plomner, from Latin plumbarius, from plumbum
PLUMBER Defined for Kids
plumber
noun plumb·er \ˈplə-mər\
Definition of PLUMBER for Kids
: a person who installs or repairs plumbing
Word History of PLUMBER
The word plumber originally meant “person who works with lead.” It comes from a Latin word plumbarius with the same meaning, which is derived from plumbum, “lead.” In the past water pipes in buildings were often made of lead. The plumbers who put in these pipes and took care of them were workers in lead.
Learn More About PLUMBER
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: plumber blockPrevious Word in the Dictionary: plumbeous vireoAll Words Near: plumber
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up plumber? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).