Waste: meaning, definitions and examples

Refers to unwanted or unusable materials, also includes the inefficient use of resources. Commonly used in environmental, industrial, and personal contexts.

• We should try to reduce food waste by planning our meals.
• The factory is working on a plan to minimize waste production.

Mainly used in American English, refers specifically to household waste including leftover food and packaging.

• Please take the garbage out before it starts to smell.
• Garbage collection is scheduled for every Tuesday.

Commonly used in British English, it refers to all sorts of waste or useless items, including household waste and broken objects.

• Take the rubbish to the bin outside.
• This old computer is just rubbish now.

Used in American English, often to refer to general waste and unwanted items. It can also carry a negative connotation when referring to something or someone considered worthless.

• The trash needs to be taken out every night.
• All this stuff is just trash, get rid of it.

Use when referring to something being used carelessly or without purpose, resulting in its loss. It often has a negative connotation.

• Don't waste your time scrolling through social media all day
• We should be careful not to waste food

Use when referring to wasting something valuable, often money or opportunities, in a reckless or foolish manner. It often implies missed potential or regret.

• He squandered his inheritance on trivial things
• She squandered the opportunity to advance her career

Use when something is being used incorrectly or in a way that was not intended, often resulting in harm or inefficiency. It has a negative connotation.

• The misuse of this tool can cause injury
• Misusing company funds can lead to serious consequences

Use when talking about using resources or eating/drinking something. It's neutral and very common in both everyday and technical language.

• Humans consume large amounts of water every day
• This car consumes a lot of gasoline