supersaturated
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˌsuːpərˈsætʃʊreɪtɪd/
KK: /ˌsuːpərˈsætʃʊreɪtɪd/
adjective
Definition
Describing a solution that contains more of a substance than it can normally hold at a given temperature, often due to cooling.
Example
The solution was supersaturated, allowing crystals to form when disturbed.
Conversation
Did you know that some solutions can be supersaturated with sugar?
Really? I didn't realize that was even possible.
Yeah, it means they hold more sugar than usual, especially when cooled down.
That's interesting! I wonder how they make those drinks so sweet.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overloaded
excessive
concentrated
Antonyms
dilute
saturated
thin
verb
Definition
To make a solution contain more of a substance than it can normally hold at a given temperature and pressure.
Example
The chemist supersaturated the solution by adding more salt than it could dissolve.
Tense Forms
Past: supersaturated
Past Participle: supersaturated
Conversation
Did you know that I supersaturated the solution last night?
Really? What did you use for that?
I just added too much salt to the water, and it supersaturated quickly.
Root Explanation
Supersaturated is formed from "super-" (meaning above or beyond) and "saturare" (meaning to fill or soak). The word describes a solution that contains more solute than it can normally hold at a given temperature, thus being filled beyond its usual capacity.
Memory Tip
Think of 'super-' meaning 'above' and 'saturate' meaning 'to fill' — this helps you remember that 'supersaturated' refers to a solution that is filled beyond its normal limits.
Visually Confused Words
suprasaturate
subsaturated
undersaturate
unsaturated