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Potability: meaning, definitions and examples

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potability

 

[ ˌpoʊtəˈbɪlɪti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

water quality

Potability refers to the suitability of water for drinking. It emphasizes the safety and health aspects associated with consuming water, ensuring that it is free from harmful contaminants. Potable water meets specific standards set by health organizations, making it safe for human consumption. The term is widely used in discussions around public health, environmental science, and water treatment processes.

Synonyms

drinkability, purity, safety

Examples of usage

  • Ensure the potability of the water supply.
  • The potability of the river water was questioned.
  • Before using well water, check its potability.

Translations

Translations of the word "potability" in other languages:

🇵🇹 potabilidade

🇮🇳 पीने की योग्यत

🇩🇪 Trinkbarkeit

🇮🇩 potabilitas

🇺🇦 питна придатність

🇵🇱 przydatność do picia

🇯🇵 飲用可能性

🇫🇷 potabilité

🇪🇸 potabilidad

🇹🇷 içilebilirlik

🇰🇷 음용 가능성

🇸🇦 صلاحية الشرب

🇨🇿 pitná způsobilost

🇸🇰 pitná spôsobilosť

🇨🇳 可饮用性

🇸🇮 pitna sposobnost

🇮🇸 drykkjarhæfi

🇰🇿 ішу үшін жарамдылық

🇬🇪 სასმელი სარგებელი

🇦🇿 içməyə yararlılıq

🇲🇽 potabilidad

Word origin

The word 'potability' derives from the Latin word 'potabilis,' which means 'drinkable' or 'able to be drunk.' This, in turn, comes from 'potare,' meaning 'to drink.' The term entered the English language in the late 19th century, becoming a part of various discussions about public health and safety, particularly in the context of drinking water. As concerns about water pollution and waterborne diseases grew, the term became increasingly relevant, leading to stricter regulations on water quality and potability standards globally. Today, potability is a critical topic in environmental management, public policy, and community health discussions.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,306, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.