Definition

Easily able to absorb moisture from the air.

Example

The hygroscopic nature of the salt caused it to clump together in the humid environment.

Conversation

Did you know that salt is actually hygroscopic?

Really? I didn't know it could absorb moisture from the air.

Yeah, that's why it clumps together in humid weather.

That makes sense! I guess we should store it in a dry place.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hygroscopic → It is formed from "hygro-" (from Greek "hygros", meaning wet or moist) and "-scopic" (from Greek "skopein", meaning to look or examine). The word describes the ability to absorb moisture from the air, hence relating to looking for or examining moisture.

Memory Tip

Think of 'moisture' ('hygro-') and 'looking' or 'examining' ('-scopic') to remember that hygroscopic refers to the ability to absorb moisture.

Visually Confused Words