hygroscopic

[hahy-gruh-skop-ik]

adjective

1. absorbing or attracting moisture from the air.

hygroscopic

/ ˌhaɪɡrəskəʊˈpɪsɪtɪ, ˌhaɪɡrəˈskɒpɪk /

adjective

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

hygroscopic

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

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of hygroscopic¹

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.

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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.

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

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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.

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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.

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