Definition

Relating to something that is carried or transmitted by water, such as diseases or goods.

Example

The city implemented measures to prevent waterborne diseases after the flood.

Conversation

Did you hear about the recent waterborne diseases in the news?

Yeah, it’s really concerning how quickly they can spread through contaminated water.

I know! It makes me think twice about drinking tap water without filtering it.

Definitely, it's better to be safe and stick to bottled water for now.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Waterborne → It is formed from "water" (from Old English *wæter*, meaning liquid that falls as rain or flows in rivers) and "borne" (from Old English *beran*, meaning to carry). The word "waterborne" refers to something that is carried or transported by water.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'carried' ('borne') by 'water' — that's what waterborne means.

Visually Confused Words