irrigation

noun

ir·​ri·​ga·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce irrigation (audio)
1
: the watering of land by artificial means to foster plant growth
2
: the therapeutic flushing of a body part with a stream of liquid

Examples of irrigation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Eco effort There’s a property-wide recycling program, a sustainable irrigation system, and refillable bath and shower amenities. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026 This may include repairing or repositioning a sprinkler, changing the irrigation schedule, removing standing water, posting warning signs, or temporarily restricting access to an affected area. — Christyne D. Santisteban, Miami Herald, 8 Oct. 2026 Access holders say the fence has created significant problems, including trapping wildlife and diverting water from community irrigation ditches. — Anna Alejo, CBS News, 7 Oct. 2026 Snow that falls in Colorado’s mountains becomes irrigation water in Kansas and drinking water hundreds of miles downstream in the Southwest. — Gale Norton, Denver Post, 4 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irrigation

Word History

First Known Use

1612, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of irrigation was in 1612

Rhymes for irrigation

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Browse Nearby Words

irrigate
irrigation
irrigational
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Irrigation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irrigation. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

irrigation

noun
ir·​ri·​ga·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈgā-shən How to pronounce irrigation (audio)
: an act or process of irrigating

More from Merriam-Webster on irrigation

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about irrigation

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