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microporous

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌmaɪkrəˈpɔːrəs/

KK: /maɪkroʊˈpɔrəs/

adjective
Definition

This term describes a material that contains very tiny holes or spaces, specifically those that are smaller than 2 nanometers in size.


Example

The new filter is made from a microporous material that effectively removes impurities from water.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about those new microporous materials they are using in filters?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read that they are really effective at purifying water.
Sloth A
It’s amazing how something microporous can make such a big difference.
Sloth B
Absolutely! I can't wait to see how they improve other technologies.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
porous
sponge-like
permeable
Antonyms
impermeable
solid
dense
Root Explanation

Microporous is formed from "micro-" (meaning small) and "porous" (from Latin "porosus", meaning full of pores). The word describes a material that is full of very small pores, allowing for the passage of gases or liquids.

Memory Tip

Think of 'micro-' meaning small, and 'porous' meaning full of holes. This helps you remember that 'microporous' refers to something that has many tiny holes.

Visually Confused Words
macropodous
acrosporous
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