Watergate

What is another word for Watergate? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Verb — To treat someone, or handle a situation, in a way that recalls the Watergate political scandal — especially through cover-ups or abuse of power.

We haven't recorded synonyms for Watergate yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use Watergate

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

-gate suffix (as in any scandal named after Watergate)

Etymology

From the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., site of the 1972 break-in that triggered the scandal ending in President Nixon's resignation; the hotel itself was named after a spot on the Potomac once used for concerts.

Full origin of Watergate →

Frequently asked questions

What does “Watergate” mean?

The word “Watergate” means to treat someone, or handle a situation, in a way that recalls the Watergate political scandal — especially through cover-ups or abuse of power. In plain terms, to act out a political cover-up scandal, echoing the original Watergate affair.

How do you pronounce “Watergate”?

“Watergate” is pronounced WAH-tuhr-gayt (/ˈwɑtəɹˌɡeɪt/ in IPA).

How do you use “Watergate” in a sentence?

Here is “Watergate” used in a sentence: “Critics accused the mayor's office of trying to watergate the leaked documents by stonewalling every question.”

What part of speech is “Watergate”?

“Watergate” is a verb.

Where does the word “Watergate” come from?

The word “Watergate” dates back to around 1972. From the Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., site of the 1972 break-in that triggered the scandal ending in President Nixon's resignation; the hotel itself was named after a spot on the Potomac once used for concerts.

Is “Watergate” a common word?

“Watergate” is an uncommon word in modern English.

Related words

floodgate sluice gate

Nearby words

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