Potable: meaning, definitions and examples

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potable

 

[ ˈpoʊtəbl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

water quality

Potable refers to water that is safe to drink or suitable for consumption. It must meet specific health standards to ensure that it is free from harmful contaminants and pathogens.

Synonyms

clean, drinkable, safe

Examples of usage

  • The tap water is potable and can be consumed safely.
  • In many rural areas, finding potable water can be a challenge.
  • Boiling water is a common method to ensure it becomes potable.
  • Bottled water is often marketed as potable for convenience.

Translations

Translations of the word "potable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 potável

🇮🇳 पीने योग्य

🇩🇪 trinkbar

🇮🇩 dapat diminum

🇺🇦 питний

🇵🇱 zdatny do picia

🇯🇵 飲用可能な

🇫🇷 potable

🇪🇸 potable

🇹🇷 içilebilir

🇰🇷 음용 가능한

🇸🇦 صالح للشرب

🇨🇿 pitná

🇸🇰 pitná

🇨🇳 可饮用的

🇸🇮 pitna

🇮🇸 drykkjarhæft

🇰🇿 ішіп болатын

🇬🇪 სასმელი

🇦🇿 içməyə yararlı

🇲🇽 potable

Word origin

The word 'potable' comes from the Latin root 'potabilis', derived from 'potare', meaning 'to drink'. This term has evolved through Middle English and Old French before making its way into modern English. The earliest recorded use of 'potable' in English appeared in the early 14th century. Originally, it described any liquid that could be drunk, but over time, the word became specifically associated with water that is safe for consumption. The importance of potable water has heightened in modern discussions around public health and environmental sustainability, as access to clean drinking water is essential for thriving communities.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,039, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.