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

If your washroom is a shared space, the semi-translucent linen still provides discreet coverage so there’s no risk of a peek-a-boo moment, plus the textile is treated with a water-repellent finish for optimal moisture resistance. —Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 9 Feb. 2026

Once the gloves are dry, apply a fabric-safe water-repellent spray to restore performance. —Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 5 Feb. 2026

Each edition of the six-inch boot is made with a mix of leather and nylon with a water-repellent coating. —Ian Servantes, Footwear News, 3 Feb. 2026

And fire ants use their waxy, water-repellent coating and textured exoskeletons to trap air; during floods, thousands cling together to make buoyant, living rafts that can survive 12 days and possibly longer. —Deni Ellis Béchard, Scientific American, 3 Feb. 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