1. plumbing(n = noun.artifact) plumbing system - utility consisting of the pipes and fixtures for the distribution of water or gas in a building and for the disposal of sewage;
is a kind of utility
has parts: plumbing fixture
2. plumbing(n = noun.act) plumbery - the occupation of a plumber (installing and repairing pipes and fixtures for water or gas or sewage in a building);
is a kind of craft, trade
is a part of building, construction
3. plumbing(n = noun.act) bathymetry - measuring the depths of the oceans;
is a kind of measure, measurement, measuring, mensuration
Derived form verb plumb1
1. The art of casting and working in lead, and applying it to building purposes; especially, the business of furnishing, fitting, and repairing pipes for conducting water, sewage, etc. Gwilt. [1913 Webster]
2. The lead or iron pipes, and other apparatus, used in conveying water, sewage, etc., in a building. [1913 Webster]
plumbing, n.
1 the system or apparatus of water-supply, heating, etc., in a building.
2 the work of a plumber.
3 colloq. lavatory installations.