waterproof
- 01 B1 Intermediate
adj.made of a material that does not let water pass through it.
adj.impervious to water; specifically describing materials or objects designed to prevent the penetration of liquid water.
Simple“You should wear a waterproof jacket because the weather report predicts heavy rain.”
In context“The new smartphone model is rated as fully waterproof, allowing it to be submerged in shallow water for up to thirty minutes without damage.”
UsageOften used to describe clothing, electronics, or building materials.
Synonymswatertightwater resistant - 02 C2 Proficiency
adj.something that is so well-planned or strong that it cannot fail or be attacked.
adj.metaphorically unassailable or incapable of being defeated or found false.
Simple“The lawyer presented a waterproof argument that the jury couldn't disagree with.”
In context“The prosecution spent months constructing a waterproof case, ensuring that every piece of forensic evidence was corroborated by multiple witnesses.”
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to treat something with a special substance so that water cannot get in.
v.to treat a surface or object with a substance to render it impervious to water. Transitive use requiring a direct object.
Simple“I need to waterproof my hiking boots before we go on the camping trip.”
In context“The contractor recommended that we waterproof the basement walls to prevent moisture from seeping through the foundation during the spring thaw.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a coat or piece of clothing made from material that keeps you dry.
n.a garment, such as a raincoat or mackintosh, made from water-resistant material.
Simple“Don't forget to pack your waterproof if you are going walking in the mountains.”
In context“He pulled his yellow waterproof tight against the gale, though the salt spray still found its way past his collar.”
Synonyms
From water + -proof. Compare West Frisian wetterproef (“waterproof”), Dutch waterproef (“waterproof”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.