Airtight: meaning, definitions and examples

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airtight

 

[ˈɛərˌtaɪt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

container

Sealed so that no air or liquid can get in or out.

Synonyms

hermetic, sealed, watertight.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
airtight

Used when something needs to be completely free from air or gas exchange, common in food storage or scientific contexts.

  • Make sure the container is airtight to keep the cookies fresh
  • The laboratory equipment must be airtight to prevent contamination
sealed

A general term used to describe something that has been securely closed. This term can be used in a wide range of contexts, from packaging to legal documents.

  • The envelope was sealed with a stamp
  • Make sure the bag of chips is sealed to keep them crunchy
watertight

Specifically used when something needs to be impervious to water. Commonly used for boats, containers, and contracts to imply flawlessness.

  • The watch is watertight and can be worn while swimming
  • The contract is watertight and leaves no room for legal loopholes
hermetic

Often used in scientific or technical contexts to imply an extremely tight seal. It can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is completely closed off from external influence.

  • The hermetic seal on the jar ensures that no bacteria can enter
  • His hermetic lifestyle makes it hard for anyone to get to know him

Examples of usage

  • The food was stored in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
  • The airtight seal on the window prevented any drafts from coming in.
  • The airtight packaging ensured the product stayed safe during transportation.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term comes from combining 'air' and 'tight', meaning sealed so that no air can pass through.
  • It first appeared in the English language in the early 19th century, reflecting advancements in technology related to packaging and storage.

Science

  • Airtight systems are crucial in labs for experiments that require controlled environments free of air contamination.
  • Creating an airtight seal is essential in food preservation techniques, such as vacuum sealing, which extends shelf life.

Engineering

  • In construction, airtight buildings are sought after to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs.
  • Innovations in materials science have enabled the creation of airtight seals in modern packaging to ensure longevity and safety.

Pop Culture

  • The term 'airtight' is often used metaphorically in discussions about arguments or plans, indicating something well-structured and convincing.
  • The concept appears in movies, often referring to secure containers for dangerous materials or secrets, heightening tension in the plot.

Psychology

  • Airtight arguments or reasoning can lead to more persuasive communication, as they leave little room for doubt or counter-arguments.
  • In cognitive behavioral therapy, creating an 'airtight' mindset helps individuals to know their thoughts are valid while addressing irrational beliefs.

Translations

Translations of the word "airtight" in other languages:

🇵🇹 hermético

🇮🇳 वायुरोधक

🇩🇪 luftdicht

🇮🇩 kedap udara

🇺🇦 герметичний

🇵🇱 hermetyczny

🇯🇵 気密

🇫🇷 hermétique

🇪🇸 hermético

🇹🇷 hava geçirmez

🇰🇷 밀폐된

🇸🇦 محكم

🇨🇿 vzduchotěsný

🇸🇰 vzduchotesný

🇨🇳 密封

🇸🇮 neprodušen

🇮🇸 loftþéttur

🇰🇿 ауа өткізбейтін

🇬🇪 ჰერმეტული

🇦🇿 havasız

🇲🇽 hermético