potable

[poh-tuh-buhl]

adjective

1. fit or suitable for drinking.

   potable water.

noun

1. Usually potables. drinkable liquids; beverages.

potable

/ ˈpəʊtəbəl /

adjective

1. fit to drink; drinkable

noun

1. something fit to drink; a beverage

Other Word Forms

• potability noun
• potableness noun
• nonpotable adjective
• unpotable adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of potable¹

1565–75; < Late Latin pōtābilis drinkable, equivalent to Latin pōtā ( re ) to drink + -bilis -ble

Word History and Origins

Origin of potable¹

C16: from Late Latin pōtābilis drinkable, from Latin pōtāre to drink

Example Sentences

The owners eventually stopped maintaining potable water on the ranch, raising the risk of E. coli or other diseases, according to the lawsuit.

From Los Angeles Times

Harbor officials believe that electrical conduits through the center of H Dock’s decking were badly damaged, as were potable water lines.

From Los Angeles Times

Situated about 17 miles north of Weaverville, the campground has potable water available from Memorial Day to Oct.

From Los Angeles Times

But the park announced that because potable water and toilets won’t be available, the camps won’t be opening after all this summer.

From Los Angeles Times

The highly coveted High Sierra Camps in Yosemite National Park that have been closed since 2018 will remain closed this summer because potable water and toilets won’t be available, according to park officials.

From Los Angeles Times