Definition
A device attached to a garden hose that disperses water in a pattern across a lawn or garden area, commonly used for lawn irrigation or as a refreshing water play tool for children.
Example Usage
The kids ran through the sprinkler to cool off during the heatwave.
Origin
Modern lawn sprinklers emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as residential lawn care became common; the oscillating sprinkler design was patented in 1933.
Fun Fact
Oscillating sprinklers—those that rock side to side—were a staple of American summer childhood for decades before modern irrigation systems became standard.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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