mothproof
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈmɔːθpruːf//
KK: /ˈmɔθˌpruf/
adjective
Definition
Not able to be harmed or damaged by moths, often used to describe materials or fabrics that prevent moths from causing destruction.
Example
The mothproof fabric kept my clothes safe from damage during the summer months.
Conversation
Have you tried using that mothproof storage for your winter clothes?
Not yet, but I’ve heard it really helps keep them safe.
Yeah, I think it’s a great way to protect them during the off-season.
I should definitely look into it before I pack them away.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
resistant
impervious
protected
Antonyms
vulnerable
exposed
susceptible
transitive verb
Definition
To treat something so that it is protected from damage caused by moths.
Example
We need to mothproof the wool blankets before storing them for the summer.
Tense Forms
Past: mothproofed
Past Participle: mothproofed
Conversation
Have you ever thought about how to mothproof your clothes?
Not really, but it sounds like a good idea to protect my sweaters.
Yeah, I just found some sprays that can help mothproof them.
Root Explanation
Mothproof → It is formed from "moth" (from Old English *moððe*, meaning a type of flying insect) and "proof" (from Old English *prōf*, meaning resistant or impervious). The word "mothproof" means resistant to or impervious to moths, particularly in the context of fabrics or materials.
Memory Tip
Think of a material that is 'resistant' ('proof') to those pesky flying insects called 'moths' — that's what mothproof means.
Visually Confused Words
toothproof
rotproof
mobproof