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.
And the exterior is made of a water-repellent fabric to keep your items dry. Nicol Natale, People.com, 18 July 2025 While based off a traditional oxford shirt, the use of Japanese typewriter cotton (a naturally water-repellent fabric) adds a dimension of luxury to what could have been an otherwise standard design. Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 17 July 2025 Also being produced under the brand name will be apparel designed for dog walkers, with such special features as reflective panels and sleeves with flashing light boxes for walks at night; water-repellent shells, and pants with knee pads. David Moin, Footwear News, 14 July 2025 Over two years of regular use, this versatile bag has taken a beating, but doesn’t show it thanks to its thick, water-repellent fabric that’s easy to spot clean. Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 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 26 Jul. 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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