water-repellent

[waw-ter-ri-pel-uhnt, wot-er-]

adjective

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

water-repellent

adjective

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of water-repellent¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

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

Clean gravel has been washed of debris that could form a water-repellent crust in the mulch and support weed growth.

From Seattle Times