English Expression · Intermediate
water column
The zone in which ascent and descent occur
Pronunciation: say water column
Meaning
A vertical pipe or standpipe used to supply water to a steam locomotive.
Example
At Carlisle, as is customary, there was a very slow stop for the engine to draw to the water column.
At Carlisle, as is customary, there was a very slow stop for the engine to draw to the water column.
Practice tips
- Practice water column out loud — read the pronunciation guide above and repeat.
- Use it in your own sentence today; reuse beats rereading.
- Pay attention to context: this English expression is for intermediate-level learners.