noncombustible

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /nɒn.kəmˈbʌs.tə.bəl/

KK: /nɑnˈkəmˌbʌstəbəl/

adjective

Definition

A material that does not catch fire easily or burn.

Example

The building was constructed with noncombustible materials to ensure safety.

Conversation

Did you know that this material is noncombustible?

Really? That sounds safe for the project we're working on.

Yeah, it won’t easily catch fire at all.

That's perfect! Safety first, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

incombustible

fireproof

flameproof

Antonyms

combustible

flammable

ignitable

Root Explanation

Noncombustible → It is formed from "non-" (meaning not) and "combustibilis" (from Latin, meaning able to burn). The word "noncombustible" means not able to burn or resistant to burning.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('non-') being combined with 'able to burn' ('combustibilis') — that's why noncombustible means something that cannot catch fire.

Visually Confused Words

uncombustible