tap water

American  

noun

1. water, obtained directly from a faucet or tap, that has not been purified, distilled, or otherwise treated.

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tap water British  

noun

1. water drawn off through taps from pipes in a house, as distinguished from distilled water, mineral water, etc

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Etymology

Origin of tap water

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

The Democratic governor reflected on other parts of his water policies, saying he has prioritized securing funds to provide clean drinking water to more communities where Californians live with contaminated tap water.

From Los Angeles Times • May 7, 2026

People have been urged not to use tap water for anything other than flushing toilets.

From BBC • Feb. 22, 2026

A hot food van is also operating in Killin to assist residents who cannot prepare meals without access to safe tap water.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

Some bottlers sell tap water purified through reverse‑osmosis filtration which removes the minerals and flavour, he said.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

As Mrs. Turton explained the lab—observe pond water and tap water, and test pH of each—Justin and I looked at each other.

From "The Thing About Jellyfish" by Ali Benjamin