Unabsorbable: meaning, definitions and examples
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unabsorbable
[ ʌnəbˈzɔːrbəbl ]
chemical property
Unabsorbable refers to a substance or material that cannot be taken up or absorbed by another substance, such as a living organism or a surface. This term is commonly used in chemistry and biology to specify materials that resist assimilation or incorporation.
Synonyms
impervious, insoluble, non-absorbent.
Examples of usage
- The unabsorbable coating on this fabric repels water.
- Certain pollutants are unabsorbable by soil, leading to environmental concerns.
- This medication contains unabsorbable particles for sustained release.
Etymology
The word unabsorbable is derived from the prefix 'un-', which indicates negation or the opposite of something, paired with the root word 'absorbable.' The term absorbable comes from the Latin 'absorbere,' which means 'to suck in' or 'to take up.' The combination reflects the inability of certain materials to take in fluids or substances, thus contributing to discussions in science and material studies, especially when examining the properties of various materials used in medical or environmental applications. Historically, the understanding and exploration of absorbability have played significant roles in chemistry and biology, leading to advancements in fields such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, and environmental science.