Definition

The leftover material or substance that remains after a process has been completed, such as after cooking, cleaning, or a chemical reaction.

Example

After the experiment, there was a residue left in the beaker that needed to be cleaned out.

Conversation

I noticed some strange residue on the counter after cooking.

Oh, that happens when the sauce spills over sometimes.

Yeah, I guess I should clean it up before it dries.

Good idea! It will be easier to wipe off while it's still fresh.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Residue → It is formed from "re-" (meaning again) and "sedere" (meaning to sit). The word refers to what remains or sits again after the main part has been removed or used up.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'sits again' after the main part is gone — that's what residue means.

Visually Confused Words