1. An underground or enclosed tank for storing water, especially rainwater
The house relies on a cistern for its water supply during dry seasons.
A casa depende de uma cisterna para seu abastecimento de água durante as estações secas.
2. A reservoir or container for holding liquid, particularly in old buildings or rural areas
The cistern in the attic needs to be cleaned regularly.
A cisterna no sótão precisa ser limpa regularmente.
3. The tank in the back of a toilet that holds water for flushing
The toilet cistern is leaking water continuously.
A cisterna do banheiro está vazando água continuamente.