what is a cistern
Cistern known as Tekir ambarÄ± in Silifke, Mersin Province, Turkey. A cistern (Middle English cisterne, from Latin cisterna, from cista, box, from Greek ÎºÎ¯ÏÏÎ· kistÃª, basket) is a waterproof receptacle for holding liquids, usually water. Cisterns are often built to catch and store rainwater. Cisterns are distinguished from wells by their waterproof linings.