(pronounced WAH-ter-shehd)

This noun has both a tangible and intangible meaning. The tangible definition is that of an area bordered by a divide, causing drainage into a particular body of water or water flow. The intangible definition, which is the one we’re referring to in the example, is a critical dividing point or line — i.e., a turning point in the course of things.

Example: The watershed moment of Pia’s interior design career occurred when her firm landed the account for a series of European boutique hotels.