Meaning & Definition
verb
past tense of water; to have provided water to plants, soil, or other living things.
She watered the plants in the garden every morning.
to have diluted or weakened something, especially a beverage.
He watered down the whiskey to make it less strong.
to moisten or supply with water.
The farmer watered the fields to ensure a good harvest.
adjective
having been provided with water, especially relating to plants.
The watered soil was ideal for planting new seeds.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old English 'waterian', akin to Old Norse 'vatna'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
watered down:
To make something weaker or less effective by adding water or another substance.
watered garden:
A garden that has been given water, indicating it is cared for.
water under the bridge:
Something that has happened and is now forgotten or irrelevant.
Slang Meanings
To be heavily intoxicated, especially from drinking.
After a few rounds, he was completely watered.
To weaken or lessen the effect of something.
The project was so watered down that it lost its original impact.