# permeable

/ˈpɝˌmiəbəɫ/ (US) · /pˈɜːməbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/permeable
Updated: 2026-05-28

## Definition

allowing liquid, gas, or light to pass through it. You use this to describe things like paper, soil, or even a person's mind that can be influenced.

For teachers: allowing a liquid, gas, or other substance to pass through or into it. Often used figuratively to describe a mind or society that is open to new ideas or influences.

## Examples

- The soil is too dry to be permeable to water.
- The architect chose a permeable membrane for the roof to allow rainwater to drain naturally into the garden below.
- In a permeable society, the boundaries between different social classes are less rigid, allowing for greater social mobility and the exchange of diverse cultural practices.

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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.