disposable

[dih-spoh-zuh-buhl]

adjective

1. designed for or capable of being thrown away after being used or used up.

   disposable plastic spoons; a disposable cigarette lighter.

2. free for use; available.

   Every disposable vehicle was sent.

noun

1. something disposable after a single use, as a paper cup, plate, or napkin.

disposable

/ dɪˈspəʊzəbəl /

adjective

1. designed for disposal after use

   disposable cups

2. available for use if needed

   disposable assets

noun

1. something, such as a baby's nappy, that is designed for disposal

2. (plural) short for disposable goods

Other Word Forms

• disposability noun
• disposableness noun
• disposably adverb
• nondisposable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of disposable¹

First recorded in 1645–55; dispose + -able

Example Sentences

After his essential bills, he says he has £200-£250 of disposable income and has noticed food prices continuing to rise.

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That tipping point is different for each person, and depends on the amount of stress you’re willing to endure as a guest, in addition to your own disposable income.

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These accounts stand to primarily benefit wealthy families, who have more disposable income to contribute to such plans, as well as other methods of leveraging them for maximum gain.

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He says it has left him with "next to no disposable income".

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“Reducing regular contributions to retirement accounts is another way that non-retirees can increase their disposable income when facing economic challenges,” the Fed said.

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Related Words

• superfluous 
• unimportant