Waterholes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A natural or artificial reservoir where animals gather to drink water
2. a term for small depressions in the land holding water, often vital for wildlife survival
3. an area or spot in arid regions where water is available for hydration and sustenance

Etymology: "Waterholes" is the plural of "waterhole," a compound of "water" and "hole." The plural simply applies the regular -s ending to the noun, so the word refers to more than one such spot where animals gather to drink. The compound itself is transparent: a hole in the ground that collects water, a natural depression or pit where a supply of water can be found. Its everyday sense has always been literal, describing the watering places that wildlife depends on in dry country.

Synonyms: watering holes, wells