white water

noun

variants or whitewater
: turbulent, frothy water (as in breakers, rapids, or falls)
… it's New England's toughest stretch of … white water, a maze of boulders and narrow channels.Michael D. Burke
… he chased whitewater in some of North America's most remote corners …Mark Bechtel
When seized by white water, the idea is to swim for the bottom (if you can tell which way that is), pray to stay relaxed and conserve your air …Kenny Moore
white water rafting
a whitewater outfitter
white-water paddlers

Examples of white water in a Sentence

The canoe got caught in white water.
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.
Imagine a marble bridge spanning from the Capitol to the City and County building in undulating waves like Colorado’s white water rapids. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 14 July 2025 The formula is infused with a calming botanical blend of lotus, gardenia, and white water lily to soothe the skin throughout the day. Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 3 July 2025 Starting at just over $5 a day, Faye’s plans automatically cover dozens of activities like white water rafting, skiing, horseback riding, kayaking and mountain climbing. Liz Knueven, CNBC, 27 June 2025 Make a weekend out of the trip by going white water rafting along the rapids rumbling along the Arkansas River and staying in a cabin or glamping tent at the Royal Gorge Cabins at Echo Canyon. Brittany Anas, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for white water

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of white water was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“White water.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/white%20water. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

white water

noun
: rough foamy water (as in rapids or waterfalls)

More from Merriam-Webster on white water

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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