Meaning & use
water clocks
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“water clocks” is a form of “water clock”.
Meaning
nounpluraltechnical
Devices used in ancient times to measure time by the steady flow of water into or out of a container.
Grammar: Plural noun; the singular is 'water clock'. Use plural verbs: 'Water clocks were used…'.
Patterns
- water clocks were used
- ancient water clocks
- a water clock
Water clocks were used in Egypt and Greece thousands of years ago.
The museum has a model of one of the most famous water clocks.
Unlike sundials, water clocks could work at night.
Word forms
| singular | water clock |
|---|
Common combinations
- ancient water clocks
- Ancient water clocks helped people keep time without the sun.
- a water clock mechanism
- The water clock mechanism used a constant drip to move a pointer.
- invent water clocks
- The Egyptians are thought to have invented water clocks.
Synonyms and how they differ
- clepsydra
- Clepsydra is the technical Greek-derived term for a water clock; it is more formal and less common.
Word family
- clock noun
- A device for measuring and showing time.
Commonly confused: water clocks or hourglass?
water clocks vs hourglass
An hourglass measures time with sand, not water.
Practice
What is the main purpose of a water clock?
Choose one answer.
A water clock measures time using a controlled flow of water. The other options describe different water-related devices.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “water clocks”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.