cistern
UK: ˈsɪstən | US: ˈsɪstərn
n. a tank for storing water, especially one connected to a toilet or rainwater collection system
n. (historical) an artificial reservoir or underground chamber for holding liquids
The word "cistern" traces back to Latin cisterna, derived from cista (a box or chest). Originally used for containers holding sacred objects, it evolved to denote artificial reservoirs for water storage. The suffix -ern (via Old French -erne) solidified its meaning as a designated storage vessel. The logic reflects a progression from a general "box" to a specialized "water container."
The ancient Romans built elaborate cisterns to supply their cities with water.
Rainwater collected in the cistern is used for irrigation.
The farmhouse had a stone cistern beneath the courtyard.
Modern cisterns in toilets are typically made of plastic.
Archaeologists discovered a medieval cistern beneath the castle ruins.