turncock

/ ˈtɜːnˌkɒk /

noun

1. (formerly) an official employed to turn on the water for the mains supply

Example Sentences

He wants to have it turned off, because its roaring kept him awake, and he was going first thing after breakfast to see the turncock about it; but, of course, it is hopeless.

From Project Gutenberg

The cylinders were unloaded, set in place at equal intervals along one side of the square, turncocks and nozzles with elongated sprayjets attached, and the valves opened.

From Project Gutenberg

Some old-stagers stuck to the ancient companies, and to the faces of familiar turncocks.

From Project Gutenberg

In town or country to know where are the police stations, hospitals, doctors, telegraph, telephone offices, fire engines, turncocks, blacksmiths and job-masters or factories, where over a dozen horses are kept.

From Project Gutenberg

Clerk of Works reports that the Council's scavengers, plumbers, carters, lamp-lighters, and turncocks, are all threatening to strike, in sympathy with bricklayers.

From Project Gutenberg