1. the water immediately downstream from a dam or hydroelectric power plant
Usage: engineering; hydrology
2. the section of a river or stream below a dam where fishing is often productive
Usage: fishing

Examples

• The tailwater below the dam provides excellent trout fishing opportunities.
• Engineers monitored the tailwater temperature to assess environmental impact.
• Cold tailwater from the reservoir created ideal conditions for rainbow trout.
• The power plant’s tailwater discharge affects the downstream ecosystem.
• Anglers gathered in the tailwater section hoping for a good catch.
• The tailwater remained consistently cool throughout the summer months.