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Recycled Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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recycled

[riˈsaɪkəld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

environmental context

Recycled refers to materials that have been processed and reused. This term typically pertains to products that have been collected and transformed into new items to reduce waste and conserve resources.

Synonyms

reclaimed, reprocessed, reused.

Examples of usage

  • Recycled paper is used for printing eco-friendly brochures.
  • Many companies focus on producing recycled packaging materials.
  • She prefers to buy recycled products to minimize her environmental impact.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Environmental Impact

  • Recycling helps save energy, as making products from recycled materials typically requires less energy than making them from raw materials.
  • In 2018, it was estimated that recycling and composting prevented the release of 186 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent into the air.

Pop Culture

  • The 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' slogan became popular in the 1970s as part of environmental campaigns, encouraging people to think about waste and conservation.
  • Films like 'Wall-E' and documentaries such as 'Plastic Planet' highlight the importance of recycling and waste management.

Economics

  • The recycling industry has grown significantly, creating thousands of jobs worldwide in collection, sorting, and processing materials.
  • Recycling can also generate revenue, with materials like aluminum and paper often being sold back to manufacturers.

Science

  • Biodegradable materials can break down naturally, while man-made materials like plastic need recycling to properly manage waste.
  • Research shows effective recycling programs can reduce landfill waste significantly, improving urban livability.

Origin of 'recycled'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the prefix 're-' meaning again, and 'cycle', which refers to a circular process.
  • The concept grew in popularity during the environmental movements of the 1960s and 1970s.

The word 'recycled' originates from the prefix 're-', which means 'again' or 'back', combined with the root word 'cycle', derived from Greek 'kyklos' meaning 'circle' or 'wheel'. The concept of recycling dates back to ancient cultures, but the modern term emerged in the early 20th century, gaining significant traction in the 1970s as environmental awareness increased. As the understanding of waste management evolved, recycling became a critical component of sustainable practices, prompting developments in technology and legislation to promote material recovery and reuse.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,892, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.