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The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner
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impermeable

IPA:

How to pronounce impermeable (audio)

Dictionary definition of impermeable

Resistant or impervious to the passage or penetration of substances or elements, such as liquids, gases, or even light.
"A surgeon's gloves are impermeable to bacteria, providing a safe environment during medical procedures."

Detailed meaning of impermeable

An impermeable material or surface does not allow the transfer or absorption of fluids or other substances. It acts as a barrier or shield, preventing the movement or flow of matter through it. This characteristic of impermeability often implies a high level of resistance or impenetrability, suggesting a lack of porosity, permeability, or absorbency. For example, an impermeable raincoat effectively repels water, keeping the wearer dry, while an impermeable membrane in biology serves as a barrier between cells or tissues, preventing the exchange of certain molecules. In various contexts, whether in geology, construction, or scientific applications, impermeable materials or structures play a crucial role in containing, isolating, or protecting against the passage of substances or energy.

Example sentences containing impermeable

1. The impermeable fabric of my raincoat keeps me dry during storms.
2. This material is impermeable to gases, making it perfect for vacuum-sealing food.
3. The architect used impermeable insulation to protect the house from moisture.
4. Rivers with impermeable bedrock are less likely to cause flooding because the water can't sink into the ground.
5. Scuba divers wear suits made from impermeable materials to stay dry underwater.
6. The impermeable barrier around the construction site prevented any debris from escaping.

History and etymology of impermeable

The adjective 'impermeable' is formed by combining the prefix 'im-' (meaning 'not' or 'without') with the word 'permeable.' 'Permeable' originates from the Latin word 'permeabilis,' which is derived from 'permeare,' meaning 'to pass through' or 'to penetrate.' In Latin, 'permeabilis' described something that allowed substances or elements to pass through it. By adding 'im-' to 'permeable,' we create the opposite meaning, indicating something that is resistant or impervious to the passage or penetration of substances or elements, such as liquids, gases, or even light. The etymology of 'impermeable' underscores its role in describing materials or barriers that do not permit the free flow or penetration of external elements, emphasizing their ability to block or resist the passage of such substances.

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Further usage examples of impermeable

1. Scientists have developed impermeable containers to safely store hazardous chemicals.
2. The new smartphones come with an impermeable casing to prevent damage from water and dust.
3. The dam is impermeable, ensuring the village downstream stays safe from flash floods.
4. Using an impermeable cover for your grill will protect it from rain and other weather conditions.
5. The paint used on the boat is impermeable to saltwater, preventing corrosion and rust.
6. A raincoat with an impermeable layer keeps you dry in heavy showers.
7. The impermeable barrier prevented water from seeping through.
8. This material is impermeable to both air and water.
9. The impermeable sealant protected the concrete from moisture.
10. An impermeable membrane is essential in waterproofing.
11. The desert's impermeable clay soil prevents water absorption.
12. The impermeable liner keeps chemicals from contaminating soil.
13. The impermeable rock layer trapped underground water.
14. Wearing impermeable gloves is crucial when handling chemicals.
15. The astronaut's visor was impermeable to the vacuum of space.
16. Impermeable fog obscured the view of the city.
17. The concrete's impermeable surface resists staining.
18. An impermeable boundary separates the two properties.
19. Impermeable glass blocks harmful UV rays.
20. The dam's impermeable design prevents water leakage.
21. Some plants have impermeable leaves to conserve water.
22. The impermeable case protects fragile instruments.
23. These containers are impermeable to oxygen.
24. Impermeable roofing materials keep buildings dry.
25. The soil's impermeable layer hindered drainage.

Prefix im-, Suffix -able, SAT 9 (Scholastic Assessment Test), High School 2, Materials and Substances

impenetrable,impervious,impregnable,indestructible,unyielding

invulnerable,resistant,sealed,solid,tight,waterproof

impervious, permeable, penetrable, porous

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