throwaway
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈθroʊəˌweɪ/
KK: /ˈθroʊəˌweɪ/
adjective
Definition
Something that is meant to be used once and then thrown away, often because it is not valuable or important.
Example
Many companies use throwaway packaging to reduce costs.
Conversation
I just saw some throwaway cups at the cafe today.
Really? That's such a waste of resources.
I know, right? It's like we live in a throwaway society.
Totally, we need to be more mindful about what we use.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
disposable
discardable
ephemeral
Antonyms
durable
permanent
valuable
noun
Definition
An item that is intended to be thrown away after use, often something that is not meant to be kept or reused.
Example
The restaurant provided throwaway containers for takeout food.
Conversation
I found this old flyer in my bag; it's just a throwaway from that event last month.
Yeah, those handouts usually end up in the trash anyway.
It's funny how much effort goes into things that people just toss aside.
Root Explanation
Throwaway → It is formed from "throw" (from Old English "þrawan", meaning to cast or hurl) and "away" (meaning to a place of no return or to discard). The word "throwaway" refers to something that is intended to be discarded after use.
Memory Tip
Think of 'casting something away' — 'throw' means to cast, and 'away' means to discard. This helps you remember that a throwaway item is something meant to be thrown out.
Visually Confused Words
stowaway