water-repellent

adjective

wa·​ter-re·​pel·​lent ˌwȯ-tər-ri-ˈpe-lənt 

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

They’re made from durable, water-repellent fabric that’s easy to clean, and the palms feature a dot texture that helps with gripping. —Melony Forcier, PEOPLE, 12 Apr. 2026

Silicone, however, is more supple and naturally water-repellent. —Bestreviews, Mercury News, 6 Apr. 2026

They’re crafted with a windproof, breathable soft shell fabric covered with a water-repellent finish. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 3 Apr. 2026

Manufactured since the 1940s to make products nonstick, stain-resistant and water-repellent, PFAS chemicals have been linked to cancer, obesity, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, decreased fertility, liver damage, hormone disruption and damage to the immune system, according to the EPA. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for water-repellent

• appellant
• libellant
• propellant
• repellant
• repellent

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