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 The uptick in earnings came as factory-gate prices rose at their fastest pace since mid-2022, driven by higher energy and raw material prices amid the Middle East conflict. — Anniek Bao, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2026 The chattering and barking mammals that scamper through these woodlands rely on the pale fluid to grow fast, providing mammal pups with the raw materials to start turning the soft cartilage of their skeletons to more resilient bone. — Literary Hub, 27 Oct. 2026 At the same time, her company is dealing with inflation pushing up its costs for raw materials. — Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2026 The company makes trash and recycling bins there from raw materials. — Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for raw material
Recent Examples of Synonyms for raw material
  1. potential
  2. material
Noun
  • The International Energy Agency (IEA) notes that sodium-ion battery production remains heavily concentrated in China, despite the potential for more geographically diverse raw-material supplies.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 1 Nov. 2026
  • Any early commentary on 2027 will be notable, as investors consider the potential for upside amid the AI buildout.
    — Kevin Stankiewicz, CNBC, 1 Nov. 2026
Definition of potential
Noun
  • Furthermore, custom rigid shapes for every new material are expensive, fragile, and difficult to scale.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Even just a tiny piece of that material would be a scientific treasure trove, Liu said the new work proves.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 2 Nov. 2026
Definition of material

Browse Nearby Words

rawhiding
raw material
rawness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Raw material.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/raw%20material. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on raw material

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about raw material

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