1. the intake structure of a water supply system, typically including dams, gates, and channels that control water flow
Usage: engineering; water management
2. the upper or beginning part of a waterway or irrigation system
Usage: civil engineering

Examples

• The headworks of the irrigation canal were damaged in the flood.
• Engineers inspected the headworks to ensure proper water flow control.
• The city’s water treatment plant begins at the headworks near the reservoir.
• Construction of new headworks will improve the region’s water distribution.
• The headworks include gates that can be adjusted during different seasons.
• Maintenance crews regularly clean debris from the headworks structures.