Disposable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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disposable
[dɪˈspəʊzəbl ]
Definitions
use once
Designed to be thrown away after use or a single use. Disposable items are often made of plastic, paper, or other materials that are not intended to be reused.
Synonyms
single-use, throwaway.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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disposable |
Use when referring to items designed to be used once and then discarded. This can be in various contexts such as hygiene, convenience, or cost-saving.
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single-use |
Specifically used for items that are only intended to be used one time. Often used in environmental discussions to highlight waste or promote sustainability.
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throwaway |
Carries a negative connotation, often used to criticize items that are cheaply made and not intended to last or to highlight a wasteful culture.
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Examples of usage
- These disposable cups are convenient for parties.
- I prefer using disposable gloves when working with chemicals.
- The hotel provides disposable toiletries for guests.
product
An item intended to be thrown away after use, typically made from inexpensive materials.
Synonyms
single-use product, throwaway item.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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disposable |
This is the same as the previous entry. Ensure to use appropriate context to mention that this term is a duplicate due to input error.
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throwaway item |
This term has a negative connotation and is often used to criticize the culture of waste and the use of items that are cheaply made and intended to be discarded quickly.
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single-use product |
This term is typically used in environmental discussions to highlight products that are intended for one-time use, often emphasizing their environmental impact. It is more specific and often used to discuss sustainable practices.
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Examples of usage
- The company manufactures a range of disposable products.
- Disposable masks have become popular during the pandemic.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Environmental Impact
- The increase in disposable products has led to serious environmental concerns, contributing to pollution and landfill overflows.
- Biodegradable disposables are being developed as a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics.
- Global efforts are being made to reduce single-use items, with many countries implementing bans on plastic bags and straws.
Pop Culture
- Disposable items became a pop culture phenomenon in the 1990s with the rise of fast food and convenience-based lifestyles.
- Films and television shows often highlight the convenience of disposable products, showcasing modern culture's throwaway mentality.
- The term has been creatively adopted in marketing, often as a selling point for convenience and ease.
Health and Safety
- In the medical field, disposable tools (like gloves and syringes) are crucial for preventing the spread of infection.
- The COVID-19 pandemic saw a surge in the use of disposable masks and gloves, highlighting their role in public health.
- Food industry regulations often require the use of disposable containers to ensure hygiene and food safety.
Technology
- The rise of disposable technology, such as e-cigarettes and phone chargers, reflects changing consumer behavior towards convenience.
- Companies are now working on durable alternatives to disposable tech to balance consumer convenience with sustainability.
- Innovations in material science are making it possible for disposable items to be both functional and more environmentally friendly.
Origin of 'disposable'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'disposable' comes from the Latin word 'disponere', which means 'to put aside'.
- It was first used in English in the mid-20th century, primarily relating to items designed for single use.
- The concept evolved significantly during the post-World War II consumer boom, which saw the rise of mass-produced disposable products.
The word 'disposable' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the verb 'dispose' with the suffix '-able'. The concept of disposable products became more prevalent in the 20th century with the rise of consumer culture and convenience-driven lifestyles.
See also: disposability, disposableness, disposal, disposed, disposer, disposing, dispossession, indisposition, predisposition.
Word Frequency Rank
Ranked #11,894, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.
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