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

This water-repellent walking sneaker has a removable orthotic insole, arch booster, and fitting spacers. — Cheryl Wagemann, InStyle, 11 July 2026

The water-repellent curtains pull closed all around you but still let some breeze in, and the removable cushions are nonporous and easy to clean. — Sarah Scott, Southern Living, 11 July 2026

The fabric is water-repellent, so feel free to carry it near a pool or beach. — Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026

Crafted from recycled polyester with a water-repellent finish, the bag keeps your belongings safe and dry in the rain—especially useful if wet weather is in your travel forecast. — Destinee Scott, Travel + Leisure, 2 July 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