# desalination

/diˌseɪɫɪˈneɪʃən/ (US) · /dɪsˌælɪnˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/desalination
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the process of removing salt from seawater to make it safe to drink. This is a common way to get fresh water in places where there is very little rain.

For teachers: the process of removing dissolved salts and other minerals from seawater or brackish water to produce fresh water. Often used in arid regions to supplement limited freshwater supplies.

## Examples

- The city relies on desalination to provide clean drinking water.
- As the population grows and the reservoirs shrink, the government is investing heavily in desalination plants along the coast.
- While desalination provides a reliable source of potable water, the high energy consumption and environmental impact of the process remain significant challenges for sustainable urban planning in coastal deserts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.