Definition of the word reservoir

The word "reservoir" comes from the Latin word "reserva" meaning a "provision" or "store". During the Middle Ages, this term was commonly used to describe any container or location that stored large quantities of a valuable resource, such as grain, wine, or oil. As the importance of water resources grew in Europe, the term began to refer specifically to artificial or natural bodies of water used as a source of water for human use. This expanded definition of a reservoir as a water storage facility was introduced during the 18th Century, and has remained in use since then. Today, reservoirs are vital infrastructure features in water resource management, serving as crucial sources of water for agriculture, industry, and urban communities, especially during times of drought or water shortages.