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

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web

Available for members only, these breathable pants come in a size range of S-XXXL with tall options as well, and are made with a water-repellent nylon and spandex material for comfortable movement all day long. —Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 24 Mar. 2023

The low-key, unpretentious Torrentshell uses a waterproof material that is treated with a durable water-repellent coating that is free from harmful perfluorinated chemicals. —Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 21 Mar. 2023

The SenseKnit fabric is water-repellent, sweat-wicking, quick-drying, and designed to move with you. —Meaghan Kenny, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Mar. 2023

The exception is with the brand's Mizzles, which have a water-repellent finish. —Lexie Sachs, Good Housekeeping, 16 Mar. 2023

Made from machine washable, water-repellent polyester, this durable blanket is an excellent companion for all outdoor events. —Maya Polton, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Mar. 2023

Burn scars are known to be waxy, water-repellent and highly vulnerable to debris flows and other hazards. —Hayley Smith, Los Angeles Times, 14 Mar. 2023

They can be found in water-repellent clothes, furniture and carpet, in nonstick pans, paints, cosmetics, cleaning products and food packaging, and in firefighting foams. —Jen Christensen, CNN, 14 Mar. 2023

The lightweight jacket has a durable water-repellent (DWR) application to keep water from soaking the jacket as well as a HiloTech fabric that's self-repairing. —Brenda Stolyar, WIRED, 7 Mar. 2023

See More

Word History

First Known Use

1820, in the meaning defined above

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