water-repellent

adjective

wa·​ter-re·​pel·​lent ˌwȯ-tər-ri-ˈpe-lənt How to pronounce water-repellent (audio)
ˌwä-,
-tə-ri-
: treated with a finish that is resistant but not impervious to penetration by water

Examples of water-repellent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That only works because their bodies are covered in microscopic, water-repellent hairs. Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025 When shopping for a mold-resistant shower curtain, look for eco-friendly water-repellent materials like PEVA (polyethylene vinyl acetate) or EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate). Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2025 Plus, its water-repellent fabric will hold up even during bad weather conditions. Kristine Thomason, Travel + Leisure, 13 Apr. 2025 Other bags have water-repellent shells that cause liquid to bead off the surface. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for water-repellent

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of water-repellent was in 1820

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Cite this Entry

“Water-repellent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/water-repellent. Accessed 2 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

water-repellent

adjective
wa·​ter-re·​pel·​lent
ˌwȯt-ə(r)-ri-ˈpel-ənt,
ˌwät-
: treated with a finish that resists but does not completely prevent penetration by water

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