English Reference

Word

waterproofing

Phoneticswa·ter·proof·ing, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈwɔtɝˌpɹufɪŋ/

UK/wˈɔːtəpɹˌuːfɪŋ/

Uncountable noun

Definition

n. making something stop water from getting through, like a coat, roof, or basement wall. You do it to keep things dry in rain or under water.

n. the process or treatment that makes a material or structure impervious to water. Often refers to coatings, membranes, or construction methods applied to roofs, basements, clothing, and electronic devices.

Examples

“Good waterproofing keeps your feet dry in rain.”

“The builder checks the bathroom waterproofing before laying the new tiles.”

“Effective waterproofing of the old stone foundation requires careful sealing of every crack where groundwater might enter during heavy storms.”

Examples

simple

“Good waterproofing keeps your feet dry in rain.”

contextual

“The builder checks the bathroom waterproofing before laying the new tiles.”

complex

“Effective waterproofing of the old stone foundation requires careful sealing of every crack where groundwater might enter during heavy storms.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “waterproofing” in context.

Verb

01. apply waterproofing

“Builders will apply waterproofing to the new roof tomorrow.”

verb + noun

02. damage waterproofing

“Strong sunlight can damage waterproofing on tents over time.”

verb + noun

03. improve waterproofing

“They improved the waterproofing on their winter coats.”

verb + noun

04. install waterproofing

“We need to install waterproofing around the basement walls.”

verb + noun

Adjective

05. additional waterproofing

“The old jacket needs additional waterproofing for the trip.”

adj + noun

06. durable waterproofing

“Hikers need boots with durable waterproofing for wet trails.”

adj + noun

07. effective waterproofing

“Effective waterproofing keeps the basement dry during heavy rain.”

adj + noun

Noun

08. coat of waterproofing

“The boots need a fresh coat of waterproofing.”

noun + prep + noun

09. layer of waterproofing

“Add a thin layer of waterproofing to the bathroom floor.”

noun + prep + noun

10. apply a coat of waterproofing

“You should apply a coat of waterproofing to the deck each year.”

11. check the roof waterproofing

“Remember to check the roof waterproofing after the storm.”

12. improve the basement waterproofing

“We need to improve the basement waterproofing before spring.”

Real-World Examples

“But Dicaire and Roberts have already embraced flood protection, investing in waterproofing measures to minimize damage and make it easier to pump out the black water when it comes.”
Toronto Sun 3 Oct 2026
“Unlike a traditional roof made of asphalt, metal or tiles, a green roof is made up of layers, including insulation, waterproofing and drainage, that allow plants to grow atop the building.”
Phys.org 14 Aug 2026
“Engineers had to account for the stresses of freeze-thaw cycles, which can gradually damage waterproofing layers, crack concrete and masonry, and create leaks.”
The Conversation 7 Aug 2026
“However, your required level of waterproofing or water resistance depends on your planned activities.”
The New York Times 8 Nov 2017

Word family

NOUN

waterproofing(B2)

Related words

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference