hygroscopic

American  

[hahy-gruh-skop-ik] / ˌhaɪ grəˈskɒp ɪk /

adjective

1. absorbing or attracting moisture from the air.

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hygroscopic British  

/ ˌhaɪɡrəskəʊˈpɪsɪtɪ, ˌhaɪɡrəˈskɒpɪk /

adjective

1. (of a substance) tending to absorb water from the air

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hygroscopic Scientific  

/ hī′grə-skŏp′ĭk /

1. Relating to a compound that easily absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.

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Other Word Forms

• hygroscopically adverb
• hygroscopicity noun
• nonhygroscopic adjective
• nonhygroscopically adverb

Etymology

Origin of hygroscopic

First recorded in 1765–75; hygroscope + -ic

Example Sentences

The thing about sugar is that it’s hygroscopic, which means that it’s always going to draw moisture from its surroundings.

From Salon

The second is a desiccant-based system which uses hygroscopic materials to absorb moisture from the air, then release it through a heating process, he says.

From BBC

As if this weren’t enough torment, the wood you’re using outdoors is hygroscopic.

From Seattle Times

While wood has many positive attributes, it also has one negative quality that can cause homeowners enormous frustration and expense — wood happens to be hygroscopic.

From Seattle Times

That may sound unusual, but prunes are high in hygroscopic sorbitol and fructose, which - along with salt and soy sauce - amplify the way the meat absorbs flavor.

From Washington Times