1.
water supply, tap water
The system that provides water to buildings, or the water from it.
ETYMOLOGY:
水道 combines 水 (water) + 道 (way/path), literally "water way."
COMPOUNDS:
- 水道水: tap water
- 水道代: water bill
- 水道局: water department/utility
- 水道管: water pipe
- 上水道: water supply system
- 下水道: sewage system
CULTURAL NOTE:
Japan is known for having safe, drinkable tap water throughout the country. 水道の水は飲めます (tap water is drinkable) is commonly stated to reassure visitors.