"Turn waterworks" is an idiomatic expression used to describe someone crying or producing tears uncontrollably, often portraying an intense emotional response. The phrase can be traced back to the late 19th century, where "waterworks" referred to fountains or cascades that produced water in a steady and abundant manner.
In the figurative sense, when a person's emotions overwhelm them to the point of tears, it is said that their "waterworks" have been turned on. This expression is often used to describe situations in which someone is deeply moved, saddened, or emotionally affected by an event, conversation, or even a story. The tears associated with turning on one's "waterworks" may be genuine expressions of grief, sadness, empathy, or relief.
This phrase is colloquial and commonly used in informal contexts, such as conversations between friends or family members. It is often employed figuratively, to emphasize the intensity of someone's emotional response. For example, one might say, "When she saw the surprise birthday party her friends had organized, she couldn't help but turn the waterworks on." Here, the phrase conveys that the person was so overwhelmed and touched by the surprise that they began to cry.
In summary, "turn waterworks" refers to the act of crying or producing tears in an uncontrollable manner due to an intense emotional reaction, often emphasizing the depth of someone's emotional response.
