water power

or water·power

noun

1. the power of water used, or capable of being used, to drive machinery, turbines, etc.
2. a waterfall or descent in a watercourse capable of being so used.
3. a water right possessed by a mill.

water power

noun

1. the power latent in a dynamic or static head of water as used to drive machinery, esp for generating electricity
2. a source of such power, such as a drop in the level of a river, etc
3. the right to the use of water for such a purpose, as possessed by a water mill

Word History and Origins

Origin of water power¹

First recorded in 1820–30