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hydrophilic

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /haɪˈdrɒfɪlɪk/

KK: /haɪˈdrɒfɪlɪk/

adjective
Definition

This word describes substances that are attracted to water and can easily mix with or dissolve in it.


Example

Sugar is hydrophilic, so it dissolves quickly in water.


Conversation
Sloth A
I read that some materials are hydrophilic and attract water easily.
Sloth B
Yeah, that makes them great for things like skincare products.
Sloth A
Exactly! It’s interesting how those hydrophilic properties can enhance absorption.
Sloth B
For sure, it’s all about how they interact with moisture.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
water-loving
aqueous
wettable
Antonyms
hydrophobic
repellent
dry
Root Explanation

Hydrophilic is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "-philic" (from Greek "philos", meaning loving). The word describes a substance that has an affinity for water or loves water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'water' ('hydro-') and 'loving' ('-philic') to remember that hydrophilic means something that loves water.

Visually Confused Words
hydurilic
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