hydrophobic

adjective

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hy·dro·pho·bic | \ ˌhī-drə-ˈfō-bik

Definition of hydrophobic

1 : of, relating to, or suffering from hydrophobia

2 : lacking affinity for water

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Examples of hydrophobic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The silk mask acts as a hydrophobic barrier — since wet masks are less effective, according to the CDC — and the combination provides you with multiple layers of protection. — Zoe Malin, NBC News, "7 silk face masks that are good for your skin and for staying safe," 9 Apr. 2021 The lecithin from egg yolks creates a barrier between the tar and the turtle's digestive tract when its hydrophobic side binds to the tar while its hydrophilic side faces the outside, reports Live Science. — Elizabeth Gamillo, Smithsonian Magazine, "Turtles Caught in Disastrous Oil Spill Treated With Mayonnaise," 25 Feb. 2021 In short, three-layer masks are the best, with hydrophobic material on the outside and hydrophilic materials on the inside. — Eric Bangeman, Ars Technica, "2020’s 20 most-read stories on Ars Technica," 24 Dec. 2020 But Kelty kicks it up with hydrophobic Dri-Down, which isn’t nearly as finicky about moisture, and some solid design upgrades such as an interior stash pocket and a soft nylon taffeta lining. — Ben Romans, Outdoor Life, "The 2020 Camping Gear Gift Guide," 26 Nov. 2020 The outermost layer made of hydrophobic (water-repelling) material (polypropylene, polyester, or their blends). — Corey Gaskin, Ars Technica, "Mask up! How to choose and maintain the best masks for use against COVID-19," 20 Nov. 2020 The lenses bring in a great amount of light to work well in dim conditions and are even hydrophobic to repel moisture and keep images clear. — Will Palmer, Popular Mechanics, "8 Great Binoculars for Getting a Closer Look," 8 Oct. 2020 Some anglers prefer a hydrophobic powder to keep their flies afloat. — Matthew Every, Field & Stream, "The Best Flyfishing Gear for Beginners," 16 Sep. 2020 Because the hydrocarbon bonds are hydrophobic (or water-repelling), the surface will become slick and nonstick. — Paige Szmodis, Popular Mechanics, "The 10 Best Cast-Iron Skillets to Last a Lifetime," 10 Sep. 2020

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'hydrophobic.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.