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

To be sure, the amount of households’ disposable income that goes toward gasoline has fallen over the years—muting the impact of higher prices on total aggregate spending trends.

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 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

My parents never openly discussed their money struggles, but I knew we didn't have disposable income.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi

Related Words

• superfluous
• unimportant