water-repellent

American  

[waw-ter-ri-pel-uhnt, wot-er-] / ˈwɔ tər rɪˌpɛl ənt, ˈwɒt ər- /

adjective

1. having a finish that resists but is not impervious to water.

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water-repellent British  

adjective

1. (of fabrics, garments, etc) having a finish that resists the absorption of water

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Etymology

Origin of water-repellent

First recorded in 1895–1900

Compare meaning

How does water-repellent compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• water-repellent vs. water-resistant

Example Sentences

Such facilities can release residues from everyday consumer products that use these chemicals, including nonstick cookware, food packaging, stain-resistant fabrics, and water-repellent coatings.

From Science Daily

The NWS had warned that two 'burn scars' around Ruidoso were high risk for flash-flooding, as the charred soil left behind by last year's wildfires would be "as water-repellent as a pavement".

From BBC

The Even Coat in Clay is made from waxed cotton, providing water-repellent and wind resistant properties without the use of synthetic materials.

From Los Angeles Times

Ground that once absorbed and filtered water becomes water-repellent.

From Los Angeles Times

Burn scars are at particular risk because intense heat can make soil water-repellent, while the loss of vegetation can mean there aren’t enough roots to hold the soil in place.

From Los Angeles Times