Definition

A liquid that has passed through a material and dissolved some of its substances, often containing harmful chemicals.

Example

The leachate from the landfill was tested for pollutants before being released into the environment.

Conversation

Have you heard about the problem with the leachate at the landfill?

Yeah, I read that it can really contaminate the groundwater.

Exactly! It's concerning how much leachate can affect the environment.

I hope they find a solution soon; it's a serious issue.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Leachate is formed from "leach" (from Old English *leccan*, meaning to dissolve or drain) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating a process or result). The word refers to the liquid that has percolated through a solid and extracted soluble constituents from it, typically in the context of waste management.

Memory Tip

Think of the process of 'draining' ('leach') to remember that 'leachate' is the liquid that results from this process.

Visually Confused Words