raw material

noun

Definition of raw materialnext
as in potential
the basic elements from which something can be developed Canada now converts most of its raw materials into manufactured goods such as automobiles and auto parts

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of raw material This merger provided the galaxy with an abundance of gas and dust, the raw material for intense star formation. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 7 July 2026 In summary, the researchers devised a technique using existing technologies that simultaneously produces high-entropy alloy raw materials and complex finished products. — New Atlas, 6 July 2026 Ever since Darwin, biologists have recognized that variation is the raw material of evolution by natural selection. — David Quammen, The New York Review of Books, 4 July 2026 Importing the raw materials was very expensive, so both were planted early on. — Jay R. Brooks, Mercury News, 2 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for raw material
Recent Examples of Synonyms for raw material
  1. potential
  2. material
Noun
  • If the success of Sleeping Dogs piqued an interest in his talent, this is the drama that really fulfilled his potential almost immediately.
    — Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 14 July 2026
  • Just as a landmine holds enormous potential energy, human differences carry the potential for volatility if unmanaged.
    — Susan MacKenty Brady, Fortune, 14 July 2026
Definition of potential
Noun
  • Each episode gives Ossoff new material and reinforces the argument Kemp and Dooley made during the runoff that Republicans needed a political newcomer without a long record.
    — Greg Bluestein, AJC.com, 20 July 2026
  • The fire killed 168 people, most likely because of unscrupulous contractors who used shoddy materials.
    — New York Times, New York Times, 20 July 2026
Definition of material

Browse Nearby Words

rawhiding
raw material
rawness
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Cite this Entry

“Raw material.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/raw%20material. Accessed 20 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on raw material

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about raw material

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