disposable

American  

[dih-spoh-zuh-buhl] / dɪˈspoʊ zə bəl /

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.

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noun

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

disposable British  

/ dɪˈspəʊzəbəl /

adjective

1. designed for disposal after use

   disposable cups

2. available for use if needed

   disposable assets

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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

Etymology

Origin of disposable

First recorded in 1645–55; dispose + -able

Example Sentences

This hits the economy in two ways: boosting inflation and dampening disposable income which curtails growth.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

Stearates are salt-based, soap-like substances added to disposable gloves to help them separate easily from molds during manufacturing.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 2026

“We do not make disposable clothing,” Yanai said in the company’s last annual report.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

"If we can transform the sense of guilt ordinary consumers may feel about using disposable products into something positive, and make using recycled products the norm in society, it will become economically viable," he said.

From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026

You could tell from the piles of luggage, the boxes containing radios and kitchen appliances, the sacks full of things like disposable diapers.

From "Mountains Beyond Mountains" by Tracy Kidder and Michael French

Related Words

• superfluous
• unimportant