water bearer

Meanings

1. 1nouncountable

   A person whose job is to carry water, especially in places where water is scarce.

   Grammar: Countable; plural is 'water bearers'. Often used in historical or cultural contexts.

   Patterns

   • a water bearer
   • the water bearer

   In many rural villages, the water bearer travels miles to fetch clean water.

   The painting shows a water bearer carrying two heavy pots on her shoulders.

2. 2nounproper

   The literal English name for Aquarius, the eleventh sign of the zodiac.

   Grammar: Usually capitalized as 'Water Bearer' when referring to the zodiac sign.

   Patterns

   • the Water Bearer
   • born under the Water Bearer

   People born under the Water Bearer are said to be independent and inventive.

   In astrology, the Water Bearer is associated with the element of air, not water.

3. 3nouncountable

   A container used for carrying water, such as a large jar or vessel.

   Grammar: Countable; less common than the person sense.

   Patterns

   • a water bearer
   • the water bearer

   She filled the clay water bearer and balanced it on her head.

   The old water bearer was cracked and could no longer hold liquid.

Word forms

Common combinations

the Water Bearer

The Water Bearer is the symbol for Aquarius.

a water bearer's pot

The water bearer's pot was made of unglazed clay.

village water bearer

The village water bearer starts work before sunrise.

Synonyms and how they differ

water carrier

More common for the person or vessel; 'water bearer' is more formal or literary.

Aquarius

The Latin name for the zodiac sign; 'Water Bearer' is the English translation.

Word family

water noun

The clear liquid that falls as rain and is essential for life.

bearer noun

A person who carries or brings something.

Commonly confused: water bearer or water-bearer?

Practice

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