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water cooler

WAW-ter KOO-ler /ˈwɔːtər ˈkuːlər/

nounB1

neutralinformal

A device that cools and dispenses drinking water, often found in offices; by extension, a place where informal conversations and gossip occur among colleagues.

Primarily used in the idiomatic sense to refer to informal discussions, often about non-work topics or office gossip, that happen in common areas.

The story behind the word. The term 'water cooler' simply describes a device for cooling and dispensing water. However, its idiomatic use to refer to informal workplace conversations developed because these devices often became natural gathering points in offices. Employees would pause for a drink, leading to spontaneous chats, gossip, and the sharing of non-work-related information. This usage became prominent in the mid-20th century.

Word relationships

break room: A physical space for breaks, which might include a water cooler, but doesn't inherently carry the same connotation of informal chat.
coffee station: Similar to a break room, a place for drinks, but 'water cooler' specifically evokes the informal chat aspect.

Commonly confused with

meeting room: A meeting room is for formal, structured discussions; the water cooler is for informal, spontaneous conversations.

Collocations

water cooler talk
water cooler gossip
around the water cooler
water cooler moments

Idioms & expressions

water cooler talk

Example sentences

"A lot of important information, and a fair bit of gossip, gets exchanged around the water cooler every morning." Discussing informal communication channels.
"The lack of a central break room meant there was no real 'water cooler' moment for employees to casually connect." Reflecting on company culture.

Memory hook

The 'WATER COOLER' is where conversations 'COOL' down from work topics to casual chat. Cool chat spot

When not to use

While it literally refers to a device, in a workplace context, 'water cooler' almost always implies the informal social hub. Don't use it if you literally just mean the appliance without the social connotation.

Fun facts

The concept of 'water cooler moments' has evolved in the age of remote work, with companies trying to replicate these informal interactions through virtual 'coffee breaks' or chat channels.
The term is often used metaphorically, even if there isn't an actual water cooler in the office, to refer to any informal gathering spot or casual conversation.

Related words

cubicle, camaraderie

Explore more words

scuttlebutt, gossip, refrigerator, refreshments, beverage, conduit