Dissolvable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dissolvable

[dɪˈsɒlvəbl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in chemistry

Capable of being dissolved in a liquid.

Synonyms

meltable, soluble.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dissolvable

Suitable when talking about substances that can be turned into a liquid when mixed with a liquid. Often used in general contexts, including both scientific and everyday language.

  • The pill is dissolvable in water and easy to take.
  • Make sure the packaging is dissolvable if you're looking for an eco-friendly option.

Examples of usage

  • Dissolvable tablet in water
  • The dissolvable stitches in surgery
Context #2 | Adjective

in technology

Able to be broken down or decomposed into smaller parts.

Synonyms

decomposable, disintegrable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
dissolvable

Used when something can be dissolved in a liquid, often in the context of chemistry or everyday activities involving liquids.

  • The dissolvable tablets are easy to take with water.
  • These films are made from a dissolvable material that breaks down in the rain.
decomposable

Used to describe something that can naturally break down into simpler components, often in the context of environmental science and biology.

  • This packaging is made from decomposable materials, making it more environmentally friendly.
  • Certain types of waste, like vegetable scraps, are easily decomposable.
disintegrable

Used to describe something that can break apart into smaller pieces; can have a negative connotation, suggesting fragility or weakness.

  • The old bridge was found to be disintegrable and unsafe for use.
  • Over time, the statue became disintegrable due to exposure to harsh weather conditions.

Examples of usage

  • Dissolvable packaging materials
  • Dissolvable electronic components

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, a substance is considered dissolvable if it can form a homogeneous solution with a solvent.
  • Temperature often affects how well a substance can dissolve; usually, warm water helps things dissolve faster than cold.
  • Common dissolvable materials include salts and sugars, which transform into ions or molecules when mixed with water.

Everyday Use

  • Dissolvable products like effervescent tablets and instant coffee make it easy to prepare drinks by simply adding water.
  • Biodegradable plastics are designed to be dissolvable in specific environments, making them environmentally friendly by breaking down faster.
  • In cooking, gelatin powder is a dissolvable item that can turn into a jelly-like dessert when mixed with hot liquid.

Cultural Relevance

  • The idea of dissolvable things is often used in art to illustrate themes of transformation and impermanence.
  • In literature, a character's secrets may dissolve away, symbolizing the revealing of truth over time.
  • Dissolvable fabrics are being explored in fashion, emphasizing temporary wearables to reduce waste.

Health and Safety

  • Dissolvable medication can provide a faster way for drugs to enter the bloodstream, improving efficacy.
  • However, caution is needed; not all dissolvable items are safe to consume, such as certain chemical compounds or plastics.
  • In dental care, dissolvable strips can release fluoride, helping to prevent cavities in a convenient manner.

Origin of 'dissolvable'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'dissolvable' comes from the Latin 'dissolvere', which means 'to loosen' or 'to break apart'.
  • The prefix 'dis-' means 'apart', while 'solvable' relates to 'solvere', meaning 'to solve or free'.
  • It has been used in English since the early 19th century, expanding its application mainly in scientific contexts.

The word 'dissolvable' originated from the combination of the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'apart, away' and the verb 'solve' meaning 'to break down'. It first appeared in the English language in the 17th century.


See also: dissolubility, dissoluble, dissolute, dissolution, dissolvability, dissolvableness, dissolver, dissolving, indissoluble, undissolvable.